Statement by UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, Adam Abdelmoula - On the recent attack on the Masnaa border crossing between Lebanon and Syria [EN/AR]

On 22 October, an airstrike on the main road at the Masnaa border crossing between Lebanon and Syria – the second in less than three weeks – has rendered this vital route impassable. The crossing is the main route for people escaping the escalating hostilities in Lebanon to Syria.

In addition to blocking the flow of life-saving humanitarian aid, this latest attack is forcing parents to carry their children and belongings as they navigate their way between two huge craters in the road in a bid to seek safety.

It is unacceptable for this critical lifeline for tens of thousands of civilians, including women and children, to be struck – not once, but twice.

There have also been airstrikes close to other border crossings between the two countries. These airstrikes are driving people to find alternative routes, which can take longer and be more perilous, into Syria.

I call for an immediate end to such attacks, which pose serious risks to people fleeing danger. Civilians must be protected at all times and wherever they are.