From Fighters to Peacebuilders: Tripoli’s Youth Share the Spirit of Eid

Once divided by years of conflict, the young men of Tripoli—many of them former fighters, former foes, or formerly incarcerated—are now reshaping the story of their city. This Eid al-Fitr, instead of standing on opposite sides of violence, they stood side by side, preparing and distributing 90 kilos of maamoul across Tripoli’s neighborhoods.

What may seem like a simple holiday gesture carried a deeper meaning. By going door to door, the youth delivered not only sweets but also a message: reconciliation and unity are possible when communities come together.

Through MARCH’s peacebuilding initiatives, these young men have come to realize that true strength lies not in fighting, but in contributing positively to their neighborhoods. They now understand that lasting change is built through small but consistent actions—acts of kindness that restore trust, heal wounds, and spark hope.

This initiative is just one of many that highlight how reconciliation is lived in practice. By giving back to their communities, these youth are not only repairing relationships but also laying the foundation for a more peaceful Tripoli.