UNICEF Urges Protection of Water Services Amid Lebanon’s Displacement Crisis

BEIRUT: The ongoing displacement crisis in Lebanon, exacerbated by regional hostilities, has critically impacted the country's water infrastructure, leaving hundreds of thousands without reliable access to water. Recent reports indicate that at least 28 water facilities have been damaged due to continuous bombardments, affecting over 360,000 people, mainly in the southern regions. This has led to increased pressure on water establishments to maintain operations and meet the rising demand for water supplies necessary for displaced families and children. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, UNICEF, supported by funding from the European Union, United Kingdom, and Swiss governments, has delivered essential supplies to the Lebanese Ministry of Energy and Water. The supplies include 95 pumping pumps, motors, pump control systems, 18 tons of gas chlorine, and 24 kilometers of pipes, all intended to aid the Beirut and Mount Lebanon Water Establishment in repairing damaged networks, supporting water treatmen t, and ensuring safe water access. Dr. Walid Fayyad, Lebanon's Minister of Energy and Water, highlighted the severe damage to essential services caused by ongoing hostilities, emphasizing the international community's role in aiding restoration efforts. He called for a ceasefire to alleviate the humanitarian crisis. EU Ambassador Sandra De Waele and UK Charge D'Affaires Victoria Dunne stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire, citing the humanitarian aid being provided to address Lebanon's urgent water needs. Swiss Head of Cooperation Katharina Häberli advocated for sustainable solutions to maintain public water systems amidst the crisis. UNICEF Lebanon Representative Edouard Beigbeder underscored the importance of protecting water infrastructure under international humanitarian law, as the current crisis has made access to essential services increasingly difficult for displaced families and children.