In the latest Maabar release, we immerse ourselves in the Civil War vicariously through the compelling experiences of war photographers and journalists. Beyond being mere chroniclers, they juggled multifaceted and sometimes opposing roles—witnesses, negotiators, mediators, and advocates—navigating complex relationships with informants, militia, colleagues, rivals, and friends to bring forth the unfolding stories of the conflict.

For these storytellers, life and work merge into a singular existence; they breathe the war they cover. They literally put their lives on the line, whether at the end of a sniper’s line-of-sight or facing the hostile lines of interrogation. In the pursuit of the story, conveyed through either images or words, they rely on gut instinct and luck to negotiate with informants, militiamen, colleagues, rivals and friends.

Beyond the stories of the people, we also delve into the lives of the reporters, their daily routines and constraints, and the immense pressure and toll their work took on them. Over 15 years, Lebanon’s tale, predominantly framed by violence, has etched a lasting mark not just on its landscape but also in the minds of those who crafted its narrative.

Often hailed as drafters of history, their reporting and evocative photographs not only documented what took place but also laid the foundation for historical understanding. The journalists, threading the line between bearing witness and influence, often saw nuanced stories overshadowed by word count, editorial positions, and dominant narratives. As journalists are recognized as shapers of history, this release prompts reflection on their profound influence in constructing narratives and shaping public opinion.

The release, featuring episodes in Arabic, English and French, emphasizes the importance of differentiating the experiences of local and foreign photographers, each navigating unique challenges. Their intertwined yet individual narratives demand consideration without merging or dismissing the distinctive contexts that shaped their stories.