Rescue Mission: Lion Cub Sara Relocated from Beirut to South Africa

Rescue of a Lion Cub in Lebanon

In Beirut’s Dbayeh district, a small group from Animals Lebanon lifted a metal cage labeled “live lion” onto a yacht. This cub, named Sara, was rescued from a life as a prop in TikTok videos. With fighting escalating in Lebanon, this rescue operation took on increased urgency.

The boat trip to Cyprus marked the beginning of Sara’s journey to the Drakenstein Lion Park in South Africa. After multiple flights, the cub arrived at the sanctuary where she will join two lions as part of her new family.

Animals Lebanon reported that Sara is the fifth lion rescued and relocated from Lebanon since the outbreak of war between Hezbollah and Israel last year. Since its founding in 2008, the organization has rescued 25 big cats. Before September, flying the animals out of Lebanon was possible, but Middle East Airlines stopped transporting animals due to safety concerns amid escalating violence.

Jason Meier, co-founder of Animals Lebanon, noted the human suffering in the region, emphasizing the importance of their work. The lion stayed in his spare bedroom while plans were made for her relocation. The organization’s efforts extend to caring for pets left behind by owners fleeing airstrikes. Their headquarters houses over 200 pets from displaced families.

Animals Lebanon’s work resonates with those in need. Co-founder Maggie Shaarawi highlighted the previous condition of Sara, who suffered from injuries and infections before her rescue. The cub represents ongoing efforts against the exploitation of animals for social media fame, as many affluent Lebanese acquire exotic pets for personal gain.

Lions and tigers as pets are illegal in Lebanon, but they remain popular, costing between $10,000 and $15,000 from local breeding programs. Animals Lebanon aims to relocate rescued big cats to accredited sanctuaries, ensuring they live out their lives in environments suited to their needs.

After Sara’s removal from her previous home, she went from being small enough to carry to an 80-pound cub. The team displayed emotional farewells as she departed for her new sanctuary. With a focus on animal welfare, Animals Lebanon continues to respond to urgent needs amid the ongoing conflict, rescuing various animals from local situations of distress.