Beirut: Lebanon has announced that more than 1.16 million people have been displaced following Israeli attacks that began on March 2, according to a senior Lebanese official. Social Affairs Minister Haneen Sayyed shared the figures during a press conference held in Beirut, emphasizing the data collected from a self-registration platform since the initiation of the Israeli assaults.

According to Anadolu Agency, Sayyed detailed the rapid response in establishing shelter centers across the country. On the first day of the attacks, 171 centers were opened, providing refuge for approximately 30,000 displaced individuals within hours. By the following day, the number of centers had increased to 321, accommodating around 60,000 people.

Sayyed highlighted that all official shelters are managed by the state, specifically under the Social Affairs and Education ministries, in collaboration with partners. She clarified that these shelters are not affiliated with any political party or group, ensuring their neutrality and focus on humanitarian aid.

The situation in Lebanon has intensified following aggressive actions by the Israeli military, which has launched airstrikes and a ground offensive in southern Lebanon. This military action was a response to a cross-border attack by Hezbollah on March 2. Lebanese authorities report that the ongoing conflict has resulted in at least 1,039 fatalities and 2,876 injuries.

The escalation in violence is part of a broader conflict that began with a joint US-Israeli offensive on Iran, commencing on February 28. The offensive has resulted in over 1,340 deaths. In retaliation, Tehran has carried out drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, as well as countries like Jordan, Iraq, and various Gulf nations, citing their involvement with US military operations.