By alex 
Lebanese Community in Germany Fears for Loved Ones
Germany is home to over 47,000 Lebanese nationals who are anxiously monitoring the worsening situation in the Middle East. The current conflict is causing widespread fear among the Lebanese diaspora.
Daily Life Disrupted by News from Lebanon
Shahed Naji is a Lebanese national residing in Berlin for nearly a decade. Originally coming to Germany for his studies and later establishing two yoga studios, Naji has been greatly disturbed by the recent developments in Lebanon. “I wake up in the middle of the night to check the news,” he confides. “This is the first time bombing has reached the northern regions of Beirut, where my family lives.”
Family Members Seeking Safety
Naji’s nephew, Yahya Naji, who was studying computer science at a university in Beirut, has fled to the northern part of the country for safety. While he had already considered continuing his education in Germany, the current violence has intensified his desire to leave Lebanon. “The attacks are widespread, and you never know when you might become the next target, just by being in the wrong place at the wrong time,” Yahya explains.
German Government’s Response to the Crisis
Following the attacks on Israel on October 7, the German government made provisions for Israeli visitors, allowing them to stay temporarily without needing a residence permit or extension. When questioned about a similar program for Lebanese citizens, Germany’s Interior Ministry stated that such measures are currently not available for Lebanese nationals.
Migration Challenges Amid Political Shifts
Although Germany has a significant Lebanese community, others face difficulties entering the country as Germany tightens its migration policies. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which advocates for increased deportations, recently won a state election for the first time, influencing the ruling coalition to impose stricter border controls. While statistics on how many Lebanese nationals have applied for asylum this month are not yet available, the political climate suggests that obtaining asylum might become more challenging.
Uncertain Future for Lebanese Asylum Seekers
Naji remains doubtful about the possibility of bringing his family to Germany under the current political circumstances. “I would love to get my family to safety in Germany, but the recent election results and tightening of immigration policies make this highly unlikely… unless there’s a significant policy change either in Germany or across the EU,” he shares.
Conclusion: Growing Worries Among Lebanese Nationals
The escalating conflict in the Middle East has left Lebanese nationals in Germany deeply concerned for their families back home. Despite the challenges, the community remains hopeful for a change that would allow them to bring their loved ones to safety.