Escalating Conflict in Lebanon Demands Immediate International Response, Say UNICEF and WFP Officials

BEIRUT: Amidst the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, top officials from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have called for an urgent international humanitarian response to address the rising crisis in the region. After a three-day visit, the need for increased support and protection for civilians under the principles of international humanitarian law was emphasized due to the severe impact on children and vulnerable communities. According to National News Agency-Lebanon, UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban and WFP Deputy Executive Director Carl Skau witnessed first-hand the severe conditions during their recent visit. They reported that the conflict has led to widespread devastation, with about 1.2 million people affected and nearly 190,000 displaced individuals currently sheltered in over 1,000 facilities. Many others have sought refuge with family and friends. The officials visited shelters, informal tented settlements, and the Masnaa Checkpoint, where hundre ds of thousands have crossed into Syria, further complicating the humanitarian response. Both UNICEF and WFP are actively coordinating to provide immediate relief across affected areas. The WFP has strategically prepositioned food supplies, supporting approximately 200,000 people daily with ready-to-eat food and cash assistance. UNICEF, in collaboration with government ministries and partners, is focusing on delivering primary health care, water and hygiene kits, mattresses, blankets, and essential psychosocial support services to address mental health concerns among children. The conflict has not only displaced families but has also significantly impacted the psychological well-being of the population, particularly children and youth. Almost every child in Lebanon has been affected in some way, facing threats from bombardments, loss of loved ones, and disruption to their education. The ongoing violence has pushed many into deeper poverty and uncertainty about their future. Both Chaiban and Skau highlighte d the remarkable solidarity shown by Lebanese communities in supporting each other during these challenging times. However, they also emphasized the stretched social fabric due to the scale of the crisis, pre-existing vulnerabilities, and the pressure on social services. They stressed the importance of protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, ensuring the safety of schools, hospitals, water systems, and safe passage for those fleeing conflict zones. The officials urged the international community to provide additional funding without conditionalities and to collaborate in keeping ports and supply routes open. They also called for all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize the protection of civilians and to respect international humanitarian law to prevent further casualties and suffering. Above all, both UNICEF and WFP officials reiterated the urgent need for a ceasefire to protect the children and families of Lebanon from ongoing violence and to facilitate the delivery of essential supplie s and services.