Nearly 500,000 individuals have fled Lebanon for Syria since September 23, 2023, amid escalated conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. This includes both Lebanese refugees and returning Syrian refugees. The situation is marked by significant casualties and the majority of those fleeing are children. The ongoing hostilities have resulted in severe humanitarian challenges as border crossings are targeted and damaged by airstrikes.
According to a report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), approximately 472,000 individuals have evacuated from Lebanon to Syria since September 23, 2023, due to the escalating hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. This number encompasses 32,829 Lebanese refugees, alongside 216,369 Syrian refugees who had settled in Lebanon during the civil war and are now returning as conditions deteriorate in Lebanon. Most of these individuals are fleeing intense Israeli attacks occurring predominantly in southern Lebanon. The recent conflict escalated significantly following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in numerous fatalities and extensive military responses. In Lebanon alone, reports indicate that at least 2,897 individuals have lost their lives, with 13,402 sustaining injuries as recorded by the Lebanese Ministry of Health. Alarmingly, 60 percent of those fleeing are minors, highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis. Syria has maintained an open-border policy, permitting entry through four major border points amidst the ongoing turmoil. However, recent Israeli airstrikes have damaged these crossings, compelling many to traverse on foot with their families and possessions. As tensions rise, the implications for both Lebanese and Syrian populations are profound, as the regional conflict intensifies and humanitarian needs grow.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Hamas, has had significant repercussions on regional stability. Following the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, Israel has engaged in robust military actions targeting both Gaza and Hezbollah positions in Lebanon. The situation has caused massive displacement, with UNHCR reporting that nearly half a million fled Lebanon primarily due to intensified Israeli airstrikes. The influx of refugees back into Syria, especially among vulnerable populations including minors and individuals with disabilities, raises concerns regarding the provision of adequate support and services as they return to a country recovering from its civil war.
The humanitarian crisis stemming from the escalation of conflict in the Israel-Hezbollah confrontation continues to deepen, with substantial numbers of individuals displaced from Lebanon to Syria. The soaring number of casualties and the demographic impact, particularly among children, underscore the urgent need for international attention and assistance. As the situation evolves, understanding the interconnectedness of these conflicts is crucial for addressing the full scope of the humanitarian implications across the region.
Original Source: english.alarabiya.net
