Efforts to implement a ceasefire in Ain Al Hilweh, Lebanon’s largest refugee camp for Palestinians, have proven ineffective as deadly clashes between rival factions persist, resulting in the deaths of 11 people and causing a mass displacement of residents.
Despite the announcement of a ceasefire, the reality on the ground remains dire, with heavy fighting continuing unabated. The clashes have resulted in thousands of people fleeing their homes, seeking safety from the violence that has gripped the overcrowded camp.
The situation has raised concerns that the Lebanese army might intervene if the fighting escalates or spreads beyond the camp’s boundaries. However, an official involved in the matter stated that it is too early to speculate on such actions.
The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) reported that at least 2,000 people have fled the camp amid the ongoing violence, with 11 fatalities and dozens of injuries recorded during the clashes.
The violence erupted on Sunday when Islamic militants shot and killed a Palestinian military general from the Fatah group, Abu Ashraf al Armoushi, and three escorts in a parking lot.
On the previous day, an unknown gunman attempted to kill militant Mahmoud Khalil but instead fatally shot his companion.
Following the escalation, Palestinian factions issued a joint statement on Sunday, stating that they had agreed to a cease-fire during a mediation meeting facilitated by the Lebanese Shia Amal movement and the militant Hezbollah group in Sidon city. However, the cease-fire did not hold, leading to further violence.
