Escalating Violence in Lebanon Claims Over 500 Lives, Displaces 16,500 in 24 Hours
This week’s surge in violence between Israeli forces and Hezbollah that has already killed more than 500 people in Lebanon in a single day – including many women and children – represents the most intense escalation since October 2023. More than 16,500 people have been displaced in Lebanon since Monday. With an estimated 118,000 total people now displaced in southern Lebanon and Bekka area, and over 63,5000 displaced in northern Israel since October 2023, the pressure on already-vulnerable communities and aid organizations is reaching critical levels.
Mercy Corps Country Director for Lebanon, Laila Al Amine, says:
"We are deeply alarmed by the rapid escalation of violence between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. The indiscriminate bombardment of residential areas has put innocent civilians in grave danger, killing hundreds and injuring thousands with many more still trapped under the rubble. It is unacceptable that civilians on both sides of the border are subjected to such violence, which is forcing thousands to flee their homes, spreading panic, and devastating vital infrastructure. This conflict risks spiraling out of control, threatening to engulf the entire region if immediate action is not taken to de-escalate.
“A year of simmering conflict has already displaced tens of thousands of families and furthered an economic collapse in Lebanon that has pushed 80% of the population into poverty. The impact of this week’s escalation underscores how little is being done to protect civilians in this expanding conflict.
“Our team members in Lebanon, like millions of others, are living in fear of the next attack. The escalating violence has caused widespread panic, with people rushing to supermarkets and fuel stations to stock up on essentials in fear of looming shortages. Families are fleeing their homes, with many stuck on the roads as they search desperately for safety. Over 150 public schools have already been converted into shelters, with more and more civilians left with no choice but to abandon their homes in fear for their lives. The anxiety and uncertainty are palpable as civilians brace themselves for what may come next in this rapidly deteriorating situation.
“An immediate halt to hostilities and adherence to international humanitarian law is essential to protect civilian lives, prevent further destruction, and allow for the delivery of critical aid. We implore all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and conflict resolution to bring stability to the region and alleviate the suffering of countless innocent people.”
Since October 2023, Mercy Corps has distributed essential items including hot meals, food baskets, and hygiene kits to meet the urgent needs of more than 5,700 displaced families across 44 villages in Lebanon's South and Nabatieh governorates. With local partners, Mercy Corps has also engaged displaced and host community members in community-based projects aimed at reducing social tensions and alleviating the economic impact of displacement on affected communities. Mercy Corps has been working in Lebanon since 1993, to promote peace, stability, and growth by addressing root causes of conflict and poverty.
For more information, please contact:
- Milena Murr, Middle East Media & Communications Manager (based in Beirut) at
mmurr@mercycorps.org - Natalie Fath, Director of Communications (based on the East Coast, U.S.), at
nfath@mercycorps.org