Lebanon Crisis: Intensifying Violence is Deadliest in Decades, Warn Aid Agencies
Beirut, Lebanon – November 22, 2024
Aid agencies operating in Lebanon have warned of intensifying violence in the country, describing it as the deadliest in decades.
In a joint statement released today, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the World Food Programme (WFP), and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Lebanon.
“We are witnessing a surge in violence in Lebanon that is claiming the lives of innocent civilians and displacing thousands of families,” the statement said. “This crisis is reaching new levels of desperation, and we fear it will have a devastating impact on the most vulnerable.”
The statement cited a surge in armed clashes, targeted killings, and explosions in recent months. Clashes between rival sectarian groups have been particularly intense in the northern city of Tripoli and the southern port city of Sidon.
According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), at least 500 people have been killed in violence-related incidents in Lebanon since the beginning of the year. This is the highest death toll in the country since the end of the civil war in 1990.
“The violence is forcing people to flee their homes and seek refuge in safer areas,” said the aid agencies’ statement. “Over 100,000 people have been displaced within Lebanon in the past year alone.”
The displacement crisis is putting a strain on already overcrowded communities and resources. Many displaced families are living in informal settlements, mosques, and schools, with limited access to food, water, and sanitation.
The aid agencies are calling on all parties involved in the violence to immediately cease hostilities and allow for humanitarian assistance to reach those in need. They also urged the international community to provide urgent funding and support to address the crisis.
“The situation in Lebanon is critical and urgent action is needed to prevent further loss of life and suffering,” the statement concluded. “We must work together to bring an end to the violence and create a path towards peace and stability for all Lebanese people.”
Lebanon crisis: Intensifying violence is deadliest in decades, warn aid agencies
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