The United Nations warned on Wednesday that Lebanon is experiencing a “catastrophic” humanitarian crisis, with 600,000 people now displaced as Israel intensifies its military offensive against Hezbollah militants. Hezbollah fighters have been clashing with Israeli troops in southern Lebanon, using rocket-propelled weapons to fend off Israeli attempts to breach the border.
Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, expressed concern over the escalating conflict, calling for de-escalation, and urging Israel to support international appeals for peace. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his stance, stating that Lebanon may face “a long war… like we see in Gaza.”
Since September 23, Israeli air strikes on Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon have killed over 1,190 people and displaced more than a million, according to official figures. The UN’s humanitarian coordinator for Lebanon, Imran Riza, highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that 600,000 people are internally displaced, including over 350,000 children.
Despite the dire conditions, Israel has refused to rule out strikes on Beirut’s civilian airport and access roads, stating that military actions will continue against Hezbollah if necessary. Israeli forces crossed into Lebanon on September 30, responding to a year of rocket and artillery attacks from Hezbollah that have displaced tens of thousands of Israelis.