Ankara: UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric warned on Friday that some 330,000 people remain displaced across Lebanon as renewed hostilities in the country's south continue to take a heavy toll on civilians. Briefing reporters in New York, Dujarric highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by displaced populations amidst the conflict.
According to Anadolu Agency, Dujarric reported that approximately 820,000 people have returned to their communities over the past few months, including nearly 90% of those displaced in the South Governorate. Despite these returns, a significant number of people remain displaced, with humanitarian access posing a major challenge, especially south of the Litani River.
Dujarric noted that constraints on access are obstructing humanitarian teams from reaching some communities, delaying assessments and the restoration of essential services, as well as the delivery of food assistance. He emphasized the necessity of 'unimpeded access to people in need' to sustain humanitarian aid and support recovery efforts as families return to areas affected by insecurity, damaged infrastructure, and limited services.
The ongoing conflict includes Israel's continued military operations in Lebanon, which began with a new offensive on March 2. Israeli forces have advanced into additional areas of the south, maintaining pressure despite a US-mediated framework agreement reached on June 26. This agreement provides for a gradual Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory in exchange for the deployment of the Lebanese army and the disarmament of armed groups, including Hezbollah.
US-sponsored talks have been ongoing regarding the implementation of the agreement, focusing on Israeli withdrawal and Lebanese army deployment. However, Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon persist, complicating the situation for displaced individuals.
Regarding the Gaza Strip, Dujarric expressed concern over ongoing Israeli airstrikes and other attacks. Citing UNICEF, he reported the deaths of four children aged between 2 and 16 in separate Israeli strikes in recent days, including one who succumbed to wounds sustained the previous week. The strikes have also resulted in the destruction of humanitarian supplies and damage to critical water infrastructure. Dujarric stressed the importance of protecting 'civilians and civilian objects, including humanitarian facilities and infrastructure.'