البترون

War History of Batroun

Batroun is one of the oldest cities on the Lebanese coast, with a history dating back to the Phoenician era. Due to its strategic location on the Mediterranean coast, it has witnessed numerous wars and invasions. From ancient times to modern Israeli attacks, the people of Batroun have demonstrated resistance and steadfastness against occupiers and aggressors.

Phoenician and Ancient Period

Batroun was founded by the Phoenicians under King Ithobaal I of Tyre. The city is mentioned in the Amarna letters (14th century BC) as "Batruna." The Phoenicians built a massive sea wall from sandstone in this city that still stands today. Later, the city came under the rule of the Persians, Alexander the Great, and then the Romans.

The 551 AD Earthquake

In 551 AD, a devastating earthquake destroyed Batroun. The earthquake caused mudslides and cracked Cape Lithoprosopon. Historians believe that Batroun's large natural harbor was formed as a result of this earthquake. The city's citadel was also severely damaged.

Crusader Period (1104-1289)

The Crusaders captured Batroun in 1104 and established it as the Lordship of Botrun within the County of Tripoli. The area was ruled for two centuries by French families from Provence and then by Plebanus, a merchant from Pisa. The Crusaders built Mseilha Fort to protect the route between Beirut and Tripoli. The churches of St. Saviour and St. James were built during this period. In 1289, the Mamluks conquered Batroun.

Ottoman Period

Under Ottoman rule, Batroun became the center of the Batroun District in the Mutasarrifate of Mount Lebanon. The city prospered through the production of silk, olive oil, tobacco, and salt. The most famous building from this period is Mseilha Fortress, built by Emir Fakhreddine II in the 17th century as a military stronghold.

Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990)

During the Lebanese Civil War, Batroun remained largely under Christian control. The city became a haven for Christian refugees fleeing other parts of the country. Despite sectarian tensions across the nation, Batroun managed to remain somewhat insulated from the worst violence, although the economic and social impacts of the war were severe.

Israeli Invasion (1982)

In June 1982, Israel invaded Lebanon and advanced all the way to Beirut. Although the main battlefront was in the south, Batroun was also affected by Israeli air and naval attacks. The Islamic Resistance of Hezbollah, inspired by the Islamic Revolution of Iran, was formed during this period and later became the main force fighting against the occupation.

The 2006 War and Resistance

In the summer of 2006, Israel launched a 33-day war against Lebanon. Batroun, like many coastal areas of Lebanon, was placed under Israeli naval and air blockade. Despite this blockade, Hezbollah inflicted one of the greatest defeats in Israeli history, and this war became known as the "Divine Victory."

Israeli Attacks of 2024-2026

In November 2024, the Israeli navy conducted a special operation in Batroun, kidnapping Imad Amhaz, a senior Hezbollah officer. This act was a blatant violation of Lebanese sovereignty and a clear war crime. During the wider 2026 war, Batroun was again threatened by Israeli aggression and became a refuge for southern displaced persons.