The TERRIFYING Journey of Yussef Bazzi: A Teenage Soldier in the Lebanese Civil War

Yussef Bazzi, born in Beirut in 1966, found himself thrust into the chaos of the Lebanese Civil War at just 15 years old.

This conflict, which began with sectarian violence between Christians and Muslims, quickly evolved into a complex regional struggle involving the Palestinian Liberation Organization, Israel, and Syria. Bazzi’s early involvement in this turbulent period shaped his future profoundly.

After fleeing to Africa in 1986, four years before the war officially ended in 1990, Bazzi worked as a journalist in Abu Dhabi and Kuwait. He later returned to Lebanon, where he became a prominent columnist for al-Mustaqbal and the editor of its weekly cultural supplement. In addition to his journalistic career, Bazzi has published four collections of poetry.

From Teen Soldier to Writer: The Autobiographical Account

The following narrative is extracted from Bazzi’s autobiographical work, Yasser Arafat Looked at Me and Smiled (Diary of a Fighter), which was first published in Arabic and English in 2005 and subsequently translated into French and German.

Initial Combat Experience

In the summer of 1981, Bazzi was issued his militia gear: boots, a khaki uniform, a zawbaa patch for his shoulder, an ammunition belt, and a Kalashnikov rifle with a shortened barrel. He became a member of the Central Emergency Forces of the Syrian Progressive Socialist National Party (SSNP) in Beirut, earning a meager salary of 600 Lebanese pounds and a daily pack of cigarettes.

The Battle on Verdun Street

Bazzi’s initiation into combat involved participating in a battle against the Murabitoun, a Nasserite militia made up predominantly of Sunni Muslims, allied with the Palestinian movement. The battle took place on the roof of the Dar al-Handasah building on Verdun Street, where Bazzi and his comrades engaged in fierce gunfire and missile exchanges with the Murabitoun forces in Tallet al-Khayyat. When an enemy vehicle approached, Bazzi’s team responded with a barrage of bullets and missiles, transforming the vehicle into a fiery wreckage.

Preparation for the Assault

Following the battle, Bazzi and his team returned to the SSNP base, where they were provided with chicken sandwiches, mineral water, and cigarettes. White headbands were tied around their heads for identification as they prepared for a new mission in the Labban area of Beirut. Bazzi, gripped by anxiety, joined the 200 fighters readying for the assault. The pressure of the moment left his hands cold, his mouth dry, and his mind overwhelmed by the chaotic environment.

Enduring the Intensity of Combat

During the assault, Bazzi’s unit faced relentless gunfire and explosions. The intensity of the battle was overwhelming, with bullets raining down from every direction. Despite the fierce resistance, Bazzi and his team managed to advance, navigating through the battlefield's grim realities. They stumbled upon a building, which they converted into a strategic point for logistical support. Among the abandoned military supplies they discovered were new weapons, including mini-bombs, which were quickly seized by their commanding officer.

Grim Realities and Personal Sacrifices

The battle was grueling, with severe shelling and mortar explosions creating a relentless assault. Bazzi and his comrades, covered in dust and sweat, endured the harsh conditions of the battlefield. Their dedication to the fight was evident, as they pushed forward despite the personal toll and the constant threat of death.

Amidst the chaos, Bazzi’s sense of duty and commitment to the war effort were unwavering. His experiences highlight the brutal reality faced by many young soldiers during the Lebanese Civil War. The physical and emotional scars of the conflict were profound, reflecting the harsh conditions and the continuous threat of violence that characterized the period.

A Poignant Perspective on Conflict

Bazzi’s narrative offers a poignant perspective on the Lebanese Civil War, illustrating the challenges faced by those caught in the midst of such a devastating conflict. His account not only provides a personal glimpse into the experiences of a young soldier but also serves as a testament to the enduring impact of war on those who lived through it.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Yussef Bazzi's Story

The story of Yussef Bazzi is a powerful reminder of the personal sacrifices made during the Lebanese Civil War and the lasting effects of conflict on individuals. His autobiographical account sheds light on the intense and often harrowing experiences of a young fighter, providing valuable insights into the complexities of the war and its impact on those involved.