"Naharnet" reports that for years, Lebanon has been a host for refugees, mainly from Syria, but now it is a departure point. Hundreds of Lebanese have tried to reach Europe this year on boats from their country's shores, spurred by a devastating economic crisis that has thrown two thirds of the population into poverty since October 2019.
"It is evident that these are desperate journeys undertaken by people who see no way of survival in Lebanon," said Abou Khaled.
The country is witnessing a frightening convergence of multiple crises, including political instability, the coronavirus pandemic and a massive explosion at the capital's main port in August last year that have all added to the financial unravelling of the country.
"I am dead here and might die on the way. But if I reach the destination, I can live a decent life," Moussa said.