Attachments
Situation overview
• Since the cessation of hostilities, 871,859 displaced people—largely Lebanese—have moved from their place of displacement (IOM) within Lebanon.
• The situation continues to be challenging for those returning to their place of origin or to other communities impacted by the conflict, who are facing difficulties in accessing essential services, including food, clean water, healthcare, and shelter.
• Violations of the ceasefire agreement have continued to be reported, with insecurity persisting particularly in the south. Access restrictions imposed by the Israeli army to more than 60 localities in southern Lebanon create additional challenges for displaced populations trying to return as well as for humanitarian actors who are not able to access border villages.
• Cross-border movements between Lebanon and Syria continues via official and unofficial crossing points, with the Masnaa official border crossing in Bekaa being the only crossing open for vehicle traffic. Movements continue on a daily basis at a low but steady rate, mostly through Masnaa. While refugees continue to express interest in return to Syria, many continue to cite challenges and request UNHCR support with transportation, shelter, and continued support for returning IDPs.
• In Syria, clashes between the new authorities and armed groups are ongoing. While insecurity remains a concern, the situation continues to rapidly shift, with difficulties in predicting how the coming period will evolve. Through its close contact with Syrian refugee communities in Lebanon, UNHCR has been monitoring refugee sentiments and concerns around return since 8 December. Most Syrians are expressing an interest in temporality visiting Syria to assess the situation. However, until now many are adopting a “wait and see” approach to observe how the situation evolves in Syria and reach clarity with respect to issues such as assistance. At the same time, some Syrian refugees are reportedly exploring a phased approach to return, with members of the family returning first to assess the situation and prepare the grounds for the family to settle in Syria.