The appalling conditions under which the Palestinians live in Gaza and the West Bank have received some publicity, but those in South Lebanon have largely gone unreported. When one family member is expelled, the entire family goes into exile. There are more than 80 military bases in the Israeli protectorate, all constructed on confiscated land and connected by a military network of roads. The South Lebanon Army has barracks on the outskirts of every town and village. The Israeli occupation has paralysed the economy.
Blockades are a weekly occurrence.
No one is allowed to drive alone in a car. Under these conditions, it is impossible to develop the agricultural economy upon which the region depends. Everyday existence means dependency on Israel for work, food and even visas for travel. The WSWS invites your comments. Please send e-mail .