Houssein Hamze, 57, runs the Mashala animal shelter in Zefta, a village in southern Lebanon, after a dog alerted him to a bomb during the 2006 war, potentially saving his life. The shelter houses approximately 200 dogs, two camels, horses, chickens, geese, and other rescued animals on a small farm supported by donations. The facility typically serves as a refuge for stray animals, but takes on a more critical role during periods of conflict.
When fighting erupted on 2 March 2026, Hamze was among roughly 20 people who remained in his village as approximately a quarter of Lebanon’s population fled their homes. He continued operating the shelter despite significant personal danger, making daily rounds in his vehicle to distribute food and water to abandoned animals across multiple villages. During these trips, he navigated airstrikes occurring in nearby areas and operated under constant surveillance from Israeli drones. He affixed his shelter’s sign to his vehicle’s roof in hopes of identification, though he acknowledged this offered no guarantee of safety.
The work proved physically demanding, with food supplies difficult to obtain and water requiring transport over considerable distances to reach animals in remote locations. Approximately 50 dogs arrived at the shelter during the conflict seeking sustenance. Hamze arranged to relocate eight donkeys to a Beirut facility out of concern they could not survive independently if something happened to him, though he lacked the means to transport larger animals like camels and horses.
Following a ceasefire in June, conditions normalized considerably, though Hamze now faces different challenges as displaced residents return and contact him requesting assistance with animal rescues. He reported receiving approximately 500 messages and calls daily regarding animals needing help. While his wartime activities generated viral videos and increased donations, funding has begun declining as media attention has shifted. Hamze expressed hope that society would eventually recognize animals’ inherent value and develop sufficient compassion to prevent future conflicts.
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