The recent conflict has been one of the worst in Lebanon’s history. Since October 2023, more than 3,500 people have lost their lives, and 15,000 have been injured. Over 1.3 million people out of an estimated population of 5.7 million, have been forced to leave their homes, with many now living in shelters or with friends and family. Winter is making things even harder. Many displaced families don’t have proper shelter or warm clothes, and heavy rain has made their situation worse.
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, alongside local and international partners, is providing emergency relief, legal aid, and psychosocial support. Emergency supplies, such as blankets, winter clothes, and shelter materials have been distributed to 450,000 people, both to Lebanese citizens and refugees.
Even with the ceasefire, the challenges are far from over. Many displaced people started returning to their homes today, but they are coming back to towns and neighbourhoods that have been heavily damaged by airstrikes.
The violence in Lebanon has also deepened the crisis in Syria. Over 557,000 people—most of them women and children—have crossed the border into Syria in recent weeks. Airstrikes in parts of the country have damaged roads and border crossings, making it harder for people to flee or get help. On top of this, many refugees are heading to areas that were already badly affected by Syria’s decade-long conflict. Most are staying in overcrowded shelters or damaged buildings, which are unsafe and not warm enough for winter.
UNHCR and its partners are helping wherever they can. However, the need is much greater than the resources available. A UN appeal for Syria is only 17% funded.
Gonzalo Vargas Llosa, UNHCR’s representative in Syria, explained:
"People are arriving in communities that are already struggling. Two out of three people in Syria need help, and over seven million are still displaced inside the country. We need more support to help them rebuild their lives."
Ceasefire: a step forward, but more is needed
While the ceasefire has stopped the fighting, the challenges remain enormous. Many families in Lebanon and Syria have lost everything and are still in desperate need of help.
UNHCR welcomes the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. We hope it can put an end to violence, destruction and immense suffering.
The ceasefire is an important step, but it’s just the beginning. For the millions affected by this conflict, the journey to recovery will be long and difficult. More funding is needed to provide shelter, food, medical care, and for long-term support to help people rebuild their lives and communities.