Attachments
Situation overview
• Since the fall of the Assad regime, an estimated 354,900 Syrians have crossed back into Syria from neighbouring countries in the region.
However, this figure does not represent verified, permanent returns to Syria, as movements across borders are porous, pendular and many are known to be moving to Syria on temporary visits to assess the situation in their areas of origin before taking a decision to return home.
• Masnaa official crossing point (OCP) in the Bekaa continues to be the main official crossing point into Syria. In North Lebanon, the Arida Official Crossing Point (OCP) remains closed since 3 February as public works are ongoing. Additionally, movements continue to take place across borders through unofficial crossing points.
• The situation remains complex and fluid, with many variables at play.
Refugees have expressed hope about the prospect of returning to their homes, while also showing hesitancy given the uncertain near and long-term outlook in Syria, with considerations such as access to education, livelihoods, housing land and property issues and ability to access humanitarian assistance in Syria.
• Since the fall of the regime in Syria on 8 December, new arrivals have entered Lebanon, including approximately 91,000 Syrians and Lebanese to Baalbek Governorate in the Bekaa, as well as over 15,000 recent new arrivals to the North of the country fleeing recent violence in Syria’s coastal areas as of 17 March 2025.