The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that approximately 110,000 people have been displaced from southern Lebanon since October last year, noting that 35% of these displaced individuals are children. The office added that estimates indicate nearly 150,000 people remain within the Blue Line, a 120-kilometer demarcation line between Lebanon and Israel.
OCHA highlighted that ongoing hostilities and daily cross-border exchanges of fire along the southern border continue to impact civilians on both sides. Since October 2023, there have been reports of 16 attacks on healthcare facilities, with 21 healthcare workers killed during the hostilities, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Significant damage has also been reported to water, electricity, communications, and road infrastructure in southern Lebanon.
Increasing Food Insecurity
OCHA also warned that 23% of the population is now suffering from food insecurity, up from 19% in March 2024. The office emphasized that it and its United Nations partners continue to scale up relief efforts in support of the government-led response, but additional funding is urgently needed.
The humanitarian partners require $110 million to continue addressing the needs of those affected by the conflict through the end of the year. OCHA noted that prior to the escalation of hostilities in October 2023, an estimated 3.7 million people were already in need of humanitarian assistance, and Lebanon’s 2024 response plan has only been 25% funded, with $670 million received out of the $2.72 billion required.
OCHA urged all parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, stressing the need to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure at all times.
