Over 18,000 Lebanese nationals have entered Iraq since late September, fleeing Israeli airstrikes. The Iraqi government has implemented a visa-free entry policy for Lebanese citizens in response to the crisis. The escalated air campaign has resulted in thousands of casualties in Lebanon, prompting significant displacement.
Since late September, over 18,000 Lebanese citizens have entered Iraq due to the ongoing Israeli airstrikes targeting Lebanon, according to Iraqi authorities. Alaa al-Din al-Qaisi, a representative from Iraq’s Border Ports Authority, stated that measures are being taken to facilitate the reception of Lebanese nationals in groups. Following directives from Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, the government has implemented a visa-free entry policy exclusively for Lebanese individuals. Since the onset of these airstrikes, Iraqi officials have reported continuous arrivals of displaced Lebanese citizens. The Israeli military has intensified its air campaign in Lebanon, asserting that it aims to strike Hezbollah positions, amidst a broader surge in hostilities linked to the Gaza conflict which has persisted for over a year. Lebanese health authorities report that since October 2023, the Israeli attacks have resulted in over 3,100 fatalities and 13,800 injuries. Furthermore, a ground invasion into southern Lebanon commenced on October 1, escalating the conflict further.
The recent influx of Lebanese nationals into Iraq is a direct consequence of escalating tensions in the region, particularly the violence inflicted by Israeli forces against Lebanese territory. Since the commencement of Israeli airstrikes on September 27, the Lebanese population has faced significant threats to their safety, prompting many to seek refuge across the border into Iraq. This move reflects the ongoing conflict associated with Hezbollah and Israel and the broader implications of regional instability, exacerbated by the concurrent situation in Gaza, thereby necessitating humanitarian responses from neighboring nations.
The situation reveals a complex humanitarian crisis unfolding as Israeli military actions escalate against Hezbollah, resulting in mass displacement of Lebanese citizens. Iraq’s response to permit visa-free entry underscores the significant concerns for human welfare amidst ongoing violence. This development emphasizes the need for regional stability and humanitarian action to address the plight of those affected by such conflicts.
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