Imran Reza, the United Nations Coordinator for Humanitarian Affairs in Lebanon, announced on Friday the allocation of an additional $2 million from the Humanitarian Aid Fund for Lebanon to address the deteriorating situation in the country amid increasing humanitarian needs, according to a UN spokesperson.
Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, stated in a daily press conference that the new funding, along with $10 million allocated recently, brings the total funds dedicated to Lebanon to $12 million to date.
Dujarric added that on the health front, the World Health Organization announced yesterday the arrival of the first shipment of medical supplies in Beirut, sufficient to treat tens of thousands of injured individuals. More shipments are expected in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is concerned about the safety of civilians as Lebanon experiences an increase in airstrikes and displacement orders.
The spokesperson emphasized, “Civilians on both sides of the Blue Line in Lebanon and Israel must be allowed to live in peace and tranquility.”
The recent situation in Lebanon has deteriorated significantly due to ongoing hostilities with Israel, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis. Israeli airstrikes and a ground operation in southern Lebanon have caused extensive casualties and displacement. Over 1,000 people have been killed, including women and children, and health and aid workers. More than 6,000 individuals have been injured, with many suffering life-altering injuries. The number of displaced persons in Lebanon has surpassed one million, with many residing in overcrowded shelters and informal sites.
The conflict has also triggered a mass exodus, with many Lebanese and Syrian refugees attempting to flee the country. However, the situation at the borders remains perilous, with several crossing points being targeted and shelled, significantly increasing the risks and costs associated with fleeing.
