Lebanon's new leadership seeks to revive its defunct railway network to reconnect with neighbouring Syria and Iraq while positioning itself as a potential link in China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The country's railway system, which once connected Beirut to Damascus and Haifa in Ottoman-era Palestine, was rendered inoperative following the outbreak of Lebanon's 15-year civil war in 1975, destroying much of the already underfunded network. Several plans have been put in over the years to reboot the defunct system, but all have failed to materialise. Despite repeated calls for the railway system restoration, successive governments have failed to act due to political instability, security concerns, and the financial crisis that deepened in 2019.

Carlos Naffa, head of the pro-rail advocacy group “Train Train,” has been at the forefront of efforts to revive Lebanon's railway infrastructure. He explained to IntelliNews the historical significance of the railway, recalling that the first official train journey from Beirut to Damascus took place on  August 3 1895. The rail enthusiast has consistently criticised the former government's corruption and mismanagement, particularly regarding infrastructure projects. He also pointed to the Beirut Port explosion as an "example of negligence," condemning the government for failing to request formal studies and proposals from international railway companies, a step he sees as crucial for moving forward with the project.

Regional transit agreements

Naffa said, "The volume of Arab transit trade, estimated by numerous sources to exceed $200bn annually, cannot be monopolised by any regional facility—neither the Suez Canal, Syrian ports, nor Israeli ports." He noted "The ESCWA Corridor agreement signed in 2003 would serve the European economy and enhance transit movement, especially with the anticipated growth of the global economy in 2026 and the increasing volume of trade," Naffa explained.

He said that the growing exchange routes, primary lines, and industrial assembly between the East, whether in India or China, and the West, represented by European industrial nations, highlight the urgent need to implement the ESCWA Corridor agreement. 

Consequently, Beirut and Tripoli ports can complement and compete with regional ports, to support global trade and strengthen regional transport. To push for action, Train Train has developed a comprehensive transport plan to link all Lebanon regions.

Strategic and economic potential

The proposal, which will be submitted to newly selected President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, advocates for public-private partnerships to finance and implement the railway restoration. Naffa believes the project could be crucial to Lebanon's economic recovery by improving regional connectivity and attracting foreign investment.

China's BRI has been a significant source of global infrastructure investment, with the Middle East receiving the largest share of China's $22bn investments in the first half of 2022. While BRI spending saw a slight decline, 57% of total funding was directed towards the region, with Saudi Arabia as the largest recipient.

The railway project presents a critical opportunity for Lebanon's economic recovery. Advocates argue that rehabilitating the rail network could enhance trade, facilitate mobility, and integrate Lebanon into regional transport networks. The project also aligns with China's vision for economic corridors, potentially positioning Lebanon as a key transit hub for international trade.

Despite growing international interest, particularly from French, Chinese, Spanish, Italian and other global firms, Lebanon's railway revival faces significant hurdles. Political instability, financial constraints, and governmental reluctance have hindered progress.

Willingness of parties

Although parliamentary blocs have engaged with foreign companies expressing willingness to invest, discussions have primarily remained behind closed doors due to entrenched political and financial interests. The National Network for Transport Justice, a coalition of civil society organisations, monitors transport projects' legal and financial integrity.

Naffa insists that any railway development must be part of a long-term, sustainable plan that promotes economic growth and social equity. The railway's strategic potential extends beyond Lebanon's borders, possibly linking Beirut Port to key areas such as the Bekaa Valley and Eastern Lebanon, and integrating with transport routes in Syria and Iraq.

Earlier in January, according to local MTV, signs of a movement looked possible. Naffa’s group finally got backing by Lebanese officials who announced plans to rejuvenate the defunct railway system, aiming to reconnect Beirut with Tripoli and extend links to neighbouring Syria and Iraq. Sajee Atiyya, chairman of parliament's Public Works Committee, stressed the strategic importance of this project: "Resurrecting the rail project was demanded several years ago. Now, with the election of President Aoun, we hope that the project will materialise."

The envisioned railway network promises multiple benefits: easing traffic congestion, reducing pollution, and stimulating economic growth through enhanced trade and tourism. By providing an alternative to air travel, it could make regional destinations more accessible and affordable for Lebanese citizens.