A critical update on the humanitarian situation in Lebanon. According to reports from the Inter Sector Coordination Group and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), 819,693 people displaced within Lebanon have returned to their cadasters of origin as of December 25. This represents a three per cent decrease since December 19.
Meanwhile, approximately 160,900 people remain displaced outside their cadasters of origin, with a significant decline in the number of people trying to return. The Israeli Army continues to restrict access to areas in southern Lebanon, exacerbating challenges for those attempting to return home.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) plays a critical role in supporting Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. Emergency Coordinator Tom Fletcher recently visited Lebanon, meeting with humanitarian workers, medical staff, and local officials. He emphasized the need for sustained support and commitment from governments to help conflict-affected Lebanese and Syrians seeking refuge.
The IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix indicates that the largest proportion of returnees came from Nabatieh district, followed by Sour district and Baalbek district. However, over 60 villages in southern Lebanon remain off-limits due to Israeli restrictions, posing significant challenges for displaced people trying to access essential services and support networks.
As efforts continue to promote civilian protection, humanitarian access, and dignified returns of displaced individuals, the international community remains committed to supporting Lebanon’s recovery and reconstruction.
Source: https://reliefweb.int/report/lebanon/lebanon-flash-update-52-escalation-hostilities-lebanon-26-december-2024