Nearly 500,000 people have fled Lebanon for Syria since September 23 due to the escalation of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The demographic of those fleeing is heavily comprised of children, and the Syrian government has maintained open borders for their return. The violence has resulted in significant casualties, particularly among civilians, in both Lebanon and Gaza.
According to a report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), approximately 472,000 individuals have fled Lebanon for Syria since September 23, amidst intensified hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. This figure comprises 32,829 Lebanese refugees and 216,369 Syrians who had sought refuge in Lebanon during their nation’s civil conflict and are now returning due to the deteriorating conditions in Lebanon. The majority of those migrating into Syria originate from southern Lebanon, an area currently subjected to daily Israeli airstrikes. The conflict escalated following the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel, prompting Israeli military operations targeting Hezbollah, which, in turn, resulted in significant civilian casualties. According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, at least 2,897 individuals have perished in Lebanon, with 13,402 sustaining injuries. Among those fleeing are minors, who constitute 60 percent of the displaced population, alongside individuals with disabilities and chronic health issues. The Syrian government has maintained an open-border policy at four primary crossings: Jdaidet Yabous, Joussieh, Daboussieh, Jesr Al Qmar, and Al Arida, facilitating this influx. However, Israeli airstrikes have disrupted movement at border crossings, compelling many to cross on foot while carrying their belongings and children. The conflict’s origins trace back to October 8, 2023, when Hezbollah commenced rocket fire into Israel in solidarity with Hamas after their unprecedented assault, which resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, primarily civilians, according to reports from the AFP. Furthermore, Israel’s extensive military response against Hamas has claimed the lives of 43,314 Palestinians in Gaza, predominantly civilians, suggesting significant humanitarian implications in the ongoing conflict.
The current situation stems from escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly following the Hamas attack on Israel and the ensuing military responses. The conflict has drawn in Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group, which has intensified attacks on Israeli targets. This military engagement has precipitated a humanitarian crisis, forcing a mass exodus of refugees from Lebanon to Syria. The United Nations has highlighted the plight of these refugees, particularly noting the vulnerable demographics within that group, such as children and those with disabilities, exacerbating the humanitarian concerns in the region.
The report by the UNHCR underscores the severe humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, with nearly half a million individuals fleeing Lebanon since late September. The majority of those displaced are minors, reflecting the urgent need for international attention and assistance. As the violence continues to escalate, the situation remains critical, necessitating a concerted effort from global actors to address both the immediate humanitarian needs and the broader implications of the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: english.alarabiya.net
