As the regional director of Youth For Christ and Christian living in Beirut, John Sagherian’s perspective on the Israel, Palestine, Hezbollah, and Hamas conflict. His view crosses political and ideological talking points we’ve heard over and over. Last week, a senior Hezbollah commander was killed in an Israeli airstrike 2 miles from his home. Part Iowan, part Lebanese, he gives his honest thoughts nearly one year into the conflict and how his home has been impacted.
On October 7 of 2023, Hamas terrorists waged the deadliest attack against Jews since the Holocaust. And now, almost 1 year into this conflict, 39,000 Palestinians have been killed. Just last week, a Hezbollah rocket attack killed 12 Israeli children. Has justice been served? Should more be done? It’s a complicated issue, says Sagherian, and in our anger it’s easy to forget innocent lives are being lost ever day.
With our desire for clarity on this issue, Sagherian cautions us to not lose sight of both sides of humanity.
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Lebanon’s Economic Collapse and Social Unrest
Sagherian describes the dire situation in Lebanon, highlighting the country’s economic collapse, the political vacuum left by the absence of a functioning government, and the social unrest that has ensued. “The Lebanese pound lira has lost 95 percent of its buying power.” Sagherian said, “Most things have become dollarized now. So people are hurting a lot of people cannot afford even to buy bread.” Today, nearly 70% of the population is below the poverty line. Despite the suffering, the resilience of some sectors is evident as restaurants remain crowded, illustrating the stark economic disparities within the country.
Sagherian explains the challenges faced by Lebanese citizens, including restrictions on withdrawing their own money from banks, which has further fueled economic distress. Additionally, he touches on the exodus of Lebanese seeking better opportunities abroad, leaving behind those without the means to escape the deteriorating conditions.
The Murky Israel-Palestine Conflict
The conversation shifts to the Israel-Palestine conflict, where Sagherian stresses the importance of understanding the complexity of the situation. He criticizes the oversimplified binary view often adopted in the West, where one is either “pro-Israel” or “pro-Palestine,” leaving no room for the gray areas that dominate the region’s reality. “One of the things I tell people here in the States is when you hear the news, always remind yourself that there is another side to the story,” Sagherian stated. “Don’t just take my word for it. Tell yourself there is another side to the story.”
Sagherian reflects on the historical context, noting that conflicts like these did not start recently but have roots that go back decades, if not centuries. He challenges the moral outrage often directed solely at one side, urging for a more balanced view that recognizes the suffering of all parties involved.
On the topic of Hezbollah, Sagherian acknowledges the group’s significant influence in Lebanon but clarifies that they do not represent the entire population. He expresses concern about Hezbollah’s power but stops short of saying they are poised to replace the government. Sagherian describes Lebanon as a “failed state” due to its political paralysis, lack of a president, and the overall breakdown of governmental functions.
Focusing on Peace and Neutrality
As a Christian leader, Sagherian underscores the importance of neutrality in conflicts, focusing on the mission of YFC to bring Christ’s message to youth in the Middle East. He emphasizes that, while it’s essential to stay informed and aware of global events, the priority should be on helping those in need, regardless of their background or political affiliations.
Sagherian concludes with a call to action for Iowans and listeners worldwide: stay informed, pray for those affected by conflicts, and support organizations like YFC that are on the ground providing aid. He also invites listeners to consider the broader implications of their perspectives, encouraging them to adopt a mindset of peace and justice in the face of complex global issues.
“The ground is level at the cross. There is no difference between Arab and Jew, Armenian and American, European and African—we all need Christ,” said Sagherian. “Christians need to realize you can have a view as to which side is right, but remember that everybody needs Christ whichever side they are.”
Help and Donate
For those looking to contribute, Sagherian directs them to the Youth for Christ International website (YFCI.org), where they can choose to support various countries, including Lebanon, in their mission to provide aid and share Christ’s message with young people affected by these ongoing conflicts.