Love Story of My Capital City

Every city has its own love story, and for me, the tale of Beirut is encapsulated in the romance of Giselle and Samir.

As you stroll through the streets of Beirut late at night, you might close your eyes and envision them laughing, conversing, and forging a deep connection. Samir would often share with Giselle that every city has its own unique scent, and to them, Beirut held a special fragrance. Yet now, all that lingers is the smell of death and sorrow.

Samir Kassir was a renowned journalist, author, and political activist committed to advocating for freedom of speech and democracy in Lebanon. Giselle, a respected television host and journalist, was celebrated for her engaging demeanor and perceptive interviews.

Their love transcended the personal, embodying their collective dreams for their country. They first met during a ceremony commemorating 60 years of Al Nahar, and together they navigated a relationship constantly shadowed by danger, yet they found joy in each other. Khoury later reflected, “Beirut bore witness to our extraordinary love story, a saga led by the city’s chronicler. When we wandered through the streets of Beirut, we were unaware that we were like birds flying toward their doom.”

Today, Beirut lies in ashes. To rise again, filled with love, hope, and culture, it needs affection to touch its very foundations.