Lebanese ready for peace, drinks in Tel Aviv after 'This is Beirut' invite, analyst to 'Post'

Independent journalist and political analyst Selena Ryan has sparked a viral conversation by inviting Lebanese civilians to Tel Aviv for drinks, asserting that many Lebanese people desire peace and welcome visits to Israel. Ryan, who is currently serving in the IDF, shared a video featuring Tel Aviv Deputy Mayor Guy Avner, who echoed the sentiment, stating, "It is only a matter of time before peace comes between the people of Israel and the people of Lebanon."

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A lot of Lebanese people tell me all the time that they want to visit Israel and that we're welcome there.

Ryan told The Jerusalem Post that despite Lebanon bearing the brunt of Hezbollah's conflict with Israel, fewer Lebanese civilians than expected hold Israel responsible for the devastation. She observed that while hostile comments are public, private messages and online comments reveal a significant undercurrent of support for peace. "I would say there are many more positive comments than negative ones, but not all of them are public," Ryan said, explaining that inflamed rhetoric online does not always reflect the reality on the ground.

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It is only a matter of time before peace comes between the people of Israel and the people of Lebanon. Come to Tel Aviv, have a beer, enjoy the nightlife, enjoy the sea, enjoy the weather…We’re going to be happy to host you.

Ryan, who identifies as right-wing, believes in "peace through strength" and has received numerous messages from various Lebanese sects, including Shia Muslims, expressing a desire for peace. She highlighted that some Shia Muslims are actively working against Hezbollah, seeking to establish an alternative leadership and identity. These groups aim to win seats in future elections to influence the Shia population's perspective, not just on Israel, but on Lebanon itself.

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I would say there are many more positive comments than negative ones, but not all of them are public. Those who hate us have no problem expressing that publicly, while those who want peace are often afraid to say so publicly.

This sentiment contrasts with public statements from officials and polls, suggesting a potential gap between official narratives and the aspirations of ordinary Lebanese citizens. The "Change Movement in the South," a political group, is mentioned as focusing on building a distinct Lebanese Shia identity separate from Hezbollah's influence.

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[I’m] right-wing, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want peace. I believe in peace through strength.