Beirut Residents Report Israeli Drone Effects on Daily Life

Residents in Beirut have reported that Israeli drones have been a constant presence in the skies over Lebanon for nearly three years. The drones produce a persistent hum that has become integrated into the city's soundscape. Locals have developed colloquial names for the drones, such as 'the buzz' and 'Um Kamel,' the latter referencing the acronym MK associated with Israeli drones.

These terms appear in everyday expressions, including phrases like 'how nice of you to visit' or 'it’s here' when the sound is detected. The hum is described as affecting interactions with the urban environment and the sky. Residents have noted that society has created linguistic ways to address the drone presence, though not as a form of acceptance.

A driver in Beirut stated that the drone presence interferes with GPS signals during work on the city's streets. He reported that the signal sometimes disappears or directs to incorrect routes, requiring increased attention to both the ground and the sky.

The driver attributed this to possible interference and noted that it is not a normal occurrence. In the Ras al-Nabaa district, a pigeon-keeper observed that his pigeons alter their direction when drones pass overhead. He stated that the pigeons sense the drones before humans do and become agitated, describing the birds as like his children and their fear as a sign of nearby danger.

A taxi driver in the Hamra district reported lowering his radio volume to listen to the sky due to the constant sound. The taxi driver said the hum is always present, even if not clearly audible, and that he will never get used to it. He explained that he intentionally turns down the music in response to the noise.

An artist in Beirut compared the city to a resilient woman who persists despite hardships. He stated that the drone sound is psychologically taxing and differs from sounds in past wars, affecting creative work by introducing doubt and a lack of reassurance.

The artist said the sound will never become normal and represents a violation of the city's freedom. A British painter who has lived in Beirut for more than a decade described incorporating the drone's impact into his artwork. He explained painting skies with thick black layers and using turpentine to create tear-like effects, sometimes while listening to the actual drone sound.

The painter stated that living under the sound is psychologically unsettling but reflects a shared experience and creative perseverance.

“The drone sound is an intrusion into privacy and a constant sense of being watched." — Graphic designer Rana Salam A graphic designer described the drone sound as an intrusion into privacy and a constant sense of being watched. She noted that her return to Beirut from America placed her amid conflict, which she addresses by documenting and monitoring in the streets. The designer stated that reactions to her actions range from supportive to critical.”