The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) expressed its concern over Israel's repeated attacks near border facilities between Lebanon and Syria, used by thousands of refugees trying to escape the conflict. These attacks, according to UNHCR spokesperson Rula Amin, are complicating the population's escape and their search for safety.
In Amin's words, the situation is critical as the population's capacity to flee the violence has diminished. Approximately one million people in Lebanon have left their homes due to the conflict, including 430,000 who have crossed into Syria, of which 70% are Syrian refugees and the rest Lebanese citizens. About 19,000 Lebanese refugees have also arrived in Iraq after crossing southern Syria.
UNHCR reported a recent attack near the Masna border crossing, which connects Beirut and Damascus by road, just 500 meters from the immigration office. This action caused damage near the facilities deployed by UNHCR to provide rest for individuals while they carry out their procedures.
These incidents, emphasized the spokesperson, exacerbate a refugee and displaced persons crisis that began a year ago and has worsened since September with the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. Syrian refugees and other vulnerable families are forced to sleep outdoors, Amin added, highlighting the difficult situation faced by the displaced in the region.
