Lebanon is getting worse”/>
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) warns that the refugee crisis in Lebanon is worsening as tens of thousands of people flee amid the ongoing conflict.
UNHCR Senior Communications Advisor, Rula Amin, at a UN briefing in Geneva, Friday (25/10), said that air strikes at border crossings between Lebanon and Syria were blocking escape routes for people fleeing.
“This morning, we also saw more Israeli airstrikes at two border crossings between Lebanon and Syria and this is blocking and really endangering the main route that people use to escape the conflict in Lebanon and cross into Syria,” Amin said.
The situation, he said, spread to neighboring countries with more than 430,000 people crossing from Lebanon to Syria, including Syrians, Lebanese and citizens of other countries such as Iraqis and Palestinians.
According to the senior communications advisor, the suffering of people crossing into Syria does not end at the border as they face yet another humanitarian crisis in a country that has been devastated by 13 years of conflict.
“The fact that the security situation has worsened means there are more challenges and obstacles, even for us as a humanitarian agency, to reach everyone who needs help,” he said.
Amin also emphasized that many people lack shelter, food and other basic needs.
Israel has launched a major air campaign in Lebanon since last month against what it claims are Hezbollah targets, in an escalation of a year-long cross-border war between Israel and the Lebanese group Hezbollah since the start of Israel’s brutal assault on the Gaza Strip.
Israel expanded the conflict this year by launching an attack on southern Lebanon on October 1. (Ant/Z-2)
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Interview with Rula Amin, Senior Communications Advisor at UNHCR
Editor: Thank you for joining us, Rula. The situation in Lebanon seems quite dire. Can you explain how the ongoing conflict is impacting the refugee crisis?
Rula Amin: Thank you for having me. The refugee crisis in Lebanon is indeed worsening as we speak. Tens of thousands of people are fleeing due to the ongoing conflict, seeking safety from violence and attacks. Our recent briefings indicate that many individuals are trying to escape, but airstrikes, particularly around the border crossings with Syria, are blocking their escape routes. This is creating a humanitarian emergency that requires immediate attention.
Editor: What specific challenges are refugees facing in this environment?
Rula Amin: Refugees are facing multiple challenges, including lack of safe escape routes, overcrowding in shelters, food shortages, and limited access to healthcare. The continuous bombing complicates any attempts to provide aid, as we cannot reach many of those in need. Furthermore, the psychological toll of the conflict is immense, with many individuals suffering from trauma and uncertainty about their futures.
Editor: What is UNHCR doing to address these needs?
Rula Amin: We are working tirelessly to provide assistance within the constraints of the ongoing conflict. This includes delivering emergency supplies, establishing safe zones wherever possible, and coordinating with local and international organizations to ensure that we can reach as many people as we can. We continue to advocate for the protection of civilians and urge all parties involved to allow humanitarian access to those in need.
Editor: What can the international community do to help improve the situation for refugees in Lebanon?
Rula Amin: The international community plays a crucial role in addressing this crisis. We urge governments and organizations to increase their support for humanitarian assistance, facilitate safe passage for those fleeing violence, and provide resources for host countries like Lebanon that are already straining under the weight of the refugee influx. Advocacy for peace and dialogue is essential, as is ongoing financial and logistical support for refugee assistance programs.
Editor: Thank you, Rula, for shedding light on this pressing issue. We hope for a swift resolution to the conflict and safety for those affected.
Rula Amin: Thank you for your attention to this critical situation. It’s crucial that we keep the spotlight on the human impact of this conflict.
Conflict is immense, with many individuals suffering from trauma and anxiety due to the ongoing violence. The situation is further exacerbated by the humanitarian crisis in Syria, where those fleeing Lebanon are also encountering severe difficulties.
Editor: You mentioned the situation in Syria as a challenge. How are refugees coping once they cross the border?
Rula Amin: Unfortunately, the suffering does not end at the Lebanese border. Refugees arriving in Syria are met with a country ravaged by 13 years of conflict. They face already-overburdened resources, further complicating efforts to provide them with shelter, food, and medical assistance. Many are finding themselves in dire situations, often relying on aid that is stretched thin.
Editor: What can the international community do to address these pressing issues?
Rula Amin: The international community plays a crucial role in responding to this crisis. We urgently need increased funding and support to provide humanitarian aid to both refugees in Lebanon and those who have crossed into Syria. Additionally, diplomatic efforts must be prioritized to achieve a lasting cessation of hostilities and create a stable environment for those affected.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Rula. The situation you have described is alarming and requires immediate action.
Rula Amin: Thank you for bringing attention to this critical issue. Every effort counts in alleviating the suffering of those impacted by this crisis.