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Mutraba: A Village Divided Between Syria and Lebanon
Mutraba is a small village that uniquely bridges Syria and Lebanon, separated only by a narrow stream. On one side, there’s a Lebanese army checkpoint, and on the other, Syrian border guards. Despite these markers, residents cross freely, treating the village as one united community.
The village is primarily agricultural and struggles with poverty. Most locals rely on farming for their livelihood, and their modest homes reflect this. While border regions often see smuggling, it hasn’t taken root in Mutraba. The simple lifestyle and lack of wealth suggest that illicit trade hasn’t brought much to this area.
Despite being geographically split, the villagers function as one community. They cross between Lebanon and Syria daily, with strong family ties and shared work. The land unites them more than the border divides them.
Life here is tough, with limited resources and little support for agriculture. Yet the people persevere, working hard to maintain their land and homes. The border is merely a line, its impact minimal in their daily struggles.
Mutraba is more than a divided village; it’s a reminder that borders can’t sever the deep connections between people. Despite political separation, the residents remain united by their shared land and challenges.