Attachments
Escalating hostilities in the region continue to impact cross-border movements from Lebanon into Syria. Between 2 March and 12 April, 277,000 individuals crossed into Syria through three official border crossings, according to Syrian authorities. This includes 234,000 Syrians, 67,300 of whom indicated an intention to return permanently, and 43,000 Lebanese nationals, most with family links in Syria. The Masnaa–Jdeidet Yabous border crossing accounted for around 60% of the total crossings from Lebanon, followed by Al Qaa–Joussieh (31%). Crossings through Arida remain limited to pedestrian traffic only due to a damaged bridge.
The Masnaa-Jdeidet Yabous border crossing was temporarily closed between the evening of 4 April and the morning of 9 April following the issuance of an evacuation order issued by Israel. During this period only a minor increase in traffic was observed at Joussieh, the sole road crossing to Lebanon for cars at that time. As of 13 April, all three crossings are fully operational, with cross-border movements returning to pre-hostilities levels.
Arrivals include Syrians who had planned to return, alongside those fleeing airstrikes and deteriorating security conditions in Lebanon. While many intend to remain in Syria, others are undecided or planning temporary stays depending on conditions in Lebanon. Movements are largely family-based, though some men are returning separately after losing livelihoods. Most are staying with relatives, highlighting the importance of family support networks, while others rely on their own homes, rentals, or temporary shelter.
Syrians are returning to all parts of Syria, primarily to Aleppo, Idleb, Homs, Rural Damascus, Hama, Dar’a, Lattakia, Deir-ez-Zor, Damascus and Ar-Raqqa governorates. Immediate needs are consistently food, shelter, livelihoods, healthcare, education and civil documentation. Many have experienced trauma both from the conflict in Syria and from recent shelling in Lebanon, underscoring the urgent need for mental health and psychosocial support in areas of return.