Informing humanitarians worldwide 24/7 — a service provided by UN OCHA

Lebanon

Middle East Situation Lebanon - Flash Update #5

Attachments

OVERVIEW

  • Continued escalation and geographic spread of hostilities Conflict continues to intensify across Lebanon, with airstrikes, artillery fire, and ground operations reported in the South, Nabatiyeh, Tyre District, and Beirut’s southern suburbs, while evacuation warnings and strikes have expanded to new areas, including in West Bekaa. Israeli officials have publicly stated their intention to establish a security zone up to the Litani River, raising concerns about prolonged displacement and destruction of civilian villages.

  • Humanitarian access increasingly constrained Ongoing airstrikes, destruction of roads and bridges, and the repositioning of Lebanese security forces away from some southern border areas are restricting humanitarian access to several hard-to-reach locations. Israeli strikes have damaged critical infrastructure, including water stations and hospitals, while movement restrictions and insecurity continue to delay aid convoys and assessments in the southern suburbs of Beirut, several areas in the Bekaa, and parts of southern Lebanon.

  • Growing social tensions and strain on host communities Tensions are increasing in several areas hosting displaced populations, driven by overcrowded shelters, perceived imbalances in aid distribution, school closures linked to shelter use, rising living costs and misinformation. There have been reported disputes between displaced families and residents and growing public concern over insecurity and theft, prompting a warning from President Aoun on 30 March against threats to civil peace, stating any attempt to undermine stability would be met with firm action. UNHCR and partners are responding by surging community engagement and communication aimed at reducing tensions and improving trust.

  • Devastating impact on civilians As of 5 April, Lebanese authorities report 1,461 people killed and 4,430 injured, including 129 children and 97 women. Refugees have also been directly affected, with 119 refugee casualties recorded, including 38 fatalities and 81 injuries, underscoring the growing impact of the conflict on displaced and refugee populations.