Sanctuary And Survival: The PLO in Lebanon

The PLO's Exodus to Lebanon

In the summer of 1982, the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) found itself facing a grave threat in Lebanon. The Israeli army had launched a full-scale invasion of the country with the aim of eliminating the PLO's presence and influence in Lebanon. This forced thousands of PLO fighters, along with their leaders, to seek sanctuary and survival in the neighboring country.

The PLO had been based in Lebanon for many years, using it as a launchpad for cross-border attacks against Israel. However, their prolonged presence and growing influence in Lebanon had led to increasing tensions with both the Lebanese government and various sectarian groups.

Israel's invasion, known as Operation Peace for Galilee, was a response to an attempted assassination of the Israeli ambassador in London, which it blamed on the PLO. The invasion was also aimed at establishing a friendly government in Lebanon and eliminating the threat from the PLO.

Sanctuary And Survival: The Plo In Lebanon

by Rex Brynen(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2694 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	269 pages

FREE

Fleeing to the South

As Israeli troops advanced into Lebanon, the PLO fighters and their leaders were forced to flee their bases in Beirut and head towards the south of the country. The journey to sanctuary was perilous, with Israeli forces targeting PLO combatants and infrastructure with airstrikes and artillery bombardment along the way.

The PLO's exodus to the south of Lebanon was met with varying reactions from the local population. For some, the arrival of the PLO fighters was seen as a source of hope and resistance against the Israeli aggression. However, for others, particularly those belonging to different sectarian groups, the presence of the PLO represented a threat to their own interests and security.

Formation of an Alliance

Recognizing the need for survival and solidarity, the PLO formed alliances with several local Lebanese militias, including Hezbollah and Amal. These alliances bolstered the PLO's defense capabilities and provided them with much-needed support in the face of the Israeli military's onslaught.

While these alliances were primarily forged out of necessity, they also laid the groundwork for a deeper integration of the PLO and various Lebanese factions. This integration would later influence the dynamics of the Lebanese civil war and contribute to the overall political landscape of the country.

The Siege of Beirut

As the PLO fighters sought sanctuary in the south, the city of Beirut became the epicenter of the conflict. Israeli forces launched a devastating siege on the city, subjecting it to heavy bombardment and cutting off vital supplies, including food and water.

The siege lasted for several months, during which the PLO, along with their Lebanese allies, engaged in fierce battles in an attempt to hold their ground against the Israeli forces. However, the overwhelming military might of Israel eventually forced the PLO leadership to negotiate their withdrawal from Beirut.

Legacy of the PLO in Lebanon

The PLO's presence in Lebanon left a lasting impact on the country's political and social landscape. While their exodus and subsequent relocation to Tunisia marked the end of their direct involvement in Lebanese affairs, the alliances and networks established during their time in Lebanon continued to shape the course of events in the country.

Moreover, the PLO's struggle for sanctuary and survival resonated with Palestinians and inspired a sense of resilience and determination. Their story serves as a symbol of resistance against foreign aggression and occupation, with valuable lessons for future generations.

The PLO's experience in Lebanon during the Israeli invasion was a testament to their resilience and determination in the face of overwhelming odds. Seeking sanctuary and survival, the PLO fighters formed alliances, engaged in fierce battles, and ultimately negotiated their withdrawal from Beirut.

Their presence in Lebanon left a lasting impact on the country's political landscape, while also inspiring Palestinians in their ongoing struggle for self-determination. The story of the PLO in Lebanon serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, resilience, and the quest for sanctuary and survival in times of adversity.

Sanctuary And Survival: The Plo In Lebanon

by Rex Brynen(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2694 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	269 pages

FREE

This book analyses the Palestine Liberation Organization's (PLO) "Lebanese era" and its aftermath, of the changing position of the Palestinian nationalist movement in Lebanon. It presents the PLO's efforts to maintain for itself a secure political and military base of operations in Lebanon.