The UN warns that Lebanese refugees are risking life-threatening returns to Lebanon from Syria due to dire conditions there. Gonzalo Vargas Llosa highlighted the alarming trend of individuals making the decision to go back despite dangers, as many believe they will be better off in Lebanon. The refugee situation, exacerbated by the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, continues to pose serious humanitarian challenges.
The United Nations has expressed serious concerns regarding the deteriorating situation in Syria, where some Lebanese refugees, displaced by the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, are choosing to return to Lebanon despite the risks involved. Gonzalo Vargas Llosa, the UN refugee agency’s representative, noted that while the numbers are small, the decision to return is highly alarming. There are reports that an average of 50 Lebanese individuals are making the perilous journey back to Lebanon daily, driven by the harsh living conditions in Syria and the availability of better support systems back home.
Approximately 560,000 individuals have crossed into Syria from Lebanon since late September due to escalating violence, with Lebanese officials estimating the number to be over 610,000. Notably, the majority of those escaping to Syria are Syrians who previously sought refuge in Lebanon. Vargas Llosa commended the local communities in Syria for their generosity in accommodating refugees, despite the country’s own devastating economic plight. Nevertheless, he warned that this support may be unsustainable due to the dire conditions in Syria.
Furthermore, there is an observable decrease in the rate of arrivals into Syria, which has fallen from a peak of 10,000-15,000 per day to around 2,000, likely a result of fears stemming from Israeli military actions against border crossings. Vargas Llosa called for an immediate cessation of these attacks, recognizing the impact they have on the flow of refugees in the region. He emphasizes that without significant international assistance, the trend of Lebanese individuals returning home under adverse conditions is expected to rise, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has resulted in significant instability in the region, particularly affecting the neighboring countries and their populations. The latest escalation has led to an influx of refugees seeking safety in Syria, a nation still grappling with its own severe civil war and economic crisis lasting over a decade. The United Nations and various humanitarian agencies are closely monitoring the situation, highlighting the complex interplay of migration, safety, and economic sustainability within this context.
In conclusion, the situation in Syria remains precarious as some Lebanese individuals opt to return home due to the deteriorating conditions they face in Syria. The UN emphasizes the need for increased international support to address the humanitarian needs effectively and provide stability in the region. As conflicts continue, the movements of refugees present a significant challenge that requires urgent attention from the global community.
Original Source: thesun.my
