UNICEF Urgently Appeals for Humanitarian Support in Lebanon Amid Escalating Conflict
As Israel launches targeted ground raids in Lebanon against Hezbollah’s strongholds, the humanitarian crisis in the region is escalating rapidly. UNICEF is calling on the international community to mobilize support urgently, ensuring that supply routes into Lebanon remain open for the safe and rapid delivery of essential supplies to children in need.
By Lisa Zengarini
The recent escalation of fighting between Hezbollah and Israel is having a devastating impact on children, with the humanitarian response falling short of the growing needs. UNICEF has issued an appeal for $105 million over the next three months to address the crisis.
Over 100 Lebanese children killed since October 2023
Since October 2023, more than 100 children have lost their lives in Lebanon, with over half of these deaths occurring in the past week alone, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. The situation is dire, with UNICEF estimating that over 300,000 children have been displaced from their homes.
In a recent press release, UNICEF highlighted its efforts to expand operations to meet the immediate needs of affected children and families as the crisis unfolds.
UNICEF’s Rapid Response to the Crisis
Working closely with the Lebanese government, UNICEF and its partners have provided aid to over 50,000 individuals in collective shelters across various regions in Lebanon. The organization has distributed essential supplies, including water, mattresses, blankets, and hygiene kits, and offered health, protection, and psychosocial support services to those in need.
Emergency medical supplies have been dispatched to hospitals facing critical shortages, with additional supplies planned for delivery in the coming days to support the treatment of the injured. However, the overwhelming scale of need in Lebanon requires urgent support to sustain and expand UNICEF’s response efforts.
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell underscored the importance of protecting children and civilian infrastructure while ensuring safe access for humanitarian actors in accordance with international humanitarian law.
Concerns for the Future
Beyond the immediate devastation, concerns are mounting over the long-term consequences of the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Bishop César Essayan voiced fears about the potential for future wars, emphasizing the need to halt the current hostilities to prevent further escalation and cultivate a future of peace.
“We may find solutions for today, but the risk is that we are cultivating fertile ground for tomorrow’s wars”
Bishop Essayan warned of the deep-seated hatred being fostered by the ongoing conflict, urging a collective effort to stop the war and rediscover humanity before it’s too late.
As the situation in Lebanon grows increasingly dire, UNICEF’s appeal for support remains critical to safeguard the well-being of children and families affected by the crisis.
