As the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran continues to escalate, Lebanon finds itself once again caught in the crossfire. The humanitarian crisis unfolding in the country has reached alarming proportions, deeply affecting millions of civilians—both Lebanese and Palestinian—as they grapple with widespread displacement, violence, and the loss of basic services. The current situation serves as a stark reminder of the broader consequences of regional tensions, highlighting the resilience and courage of those enduring these hardships daily.
Beirut, Lebanon – As the United States-Israeli conflict with Iran stretches into its fourth week, the humanitarian landscape in Lebanon is increasingly dire, with millions suffering from the repercussions of escalating violence. The nation is experiencing its second significant Israeli assault in less than two years, leading to severe humanitarian challenges and widespread displacement.
Approximately 25% of Lebanon’s population has been uprooted due to mass evacuation orders issued primarily for southern regions and the southern suburbs of Beirut, known as Dahiyeh. Many of those displaced are grappling with exhaustion and frustration, while those remaining in their homes face the constant threat of bombings, fluctuating petrol prices, and a downturn in economic activity, with little indication that the hostilities will cease anytime soon.
Samiha, a Palestinian educator who recently relocated to Beirut from Tyre in southern Lebanon, expressed her weariness but noted that previous experiences have equipped her family to better navigate this challenging round of conflict. “It’s not the first time for us. Now we know more about where to go,” she explained, although she lamented, “we don’t know how long this will last and if there is a solution.”
The Israeli military intensified its operations on March 2, following retaliatory actions from Hezbollah, which marked a significant shift in the recent conflict dynamics. Hezbollah, aligned with Iran, acted in response to what they termed an assassination of their leader, escalating tensions that had ostensibly been contained since a ceasefire in late November 2024. Despite this ceasefire, the United Nations reported over 10,000 violations by Israeli forces, resulting in substantial losses among Lebanese civilians.
Forced evacuations have compounded a widespread crisis, with the Ministry of Public Health reporting that 1.2 million people have been displaced as a result of these military actions. The Israeli government has announced plans to occupy parts of southern Lebanon and establish a so-called security zone, further straining the humanitarian situation and leading to the destruction of numerous local communities.
As the repercussions of the ongoing conflict deepen, vulnerable populations—including migrant workers, Syrian refugees, and individuals with chronic health issues—are experiencing severe hardships. Rena Ayoubi, a volunteer providing aid near Beirut’s waterfront, highlighted the struggles faced by those with medical conditions, stating that many do not have access to essential health services, such as insulin or refrigeration for medications.
The scale and immediacy of the humanitarian crisis have been described as unprecedented. Anandita Philipose from the UN sexual and reproductive health agency (UNFPA) emphasized the exceptional nature of current conditions, noting that many women have been displaced not only from their homes but also from critical healthcare systems. “Pregnant women do not stop giving birth in the middle of conflict,” she stated, underscoring the ongoing needs that persist despite the chaos.
Official casualty figures indicate that the violence has claimed 1,094 lives and left over 3,119 wounded in Lebanon, with devastating impacts on women and children. Heidi Diedrich, national director of World Vision in Lebanon, voiced deep concern over how this escalation affects children, who remain vulnerable despite legal protections as civilians.
Amid this turmoil, mental health services are increasingly in demand. At the National Lifeline for Emotional Support and Suicide Prevention Hotline, individuals in crisis seek help as they endure profound psychological distress. Operations manager Jad Chamoun highlighted the significant increase in calls for support, attributing the rise to the ongoing tensions and prior socioeconomic hardships, which have compounded over the last few years.
As Lebanon grapples with consecutive crises that include a severe economic downturn, the COVID-19 pandemic, and previous violent escalations, volunteers and mental health professionals strive to provide support. The call volume at the Lifeline has surged, indicating heightened distress in the population. Chamoun noted, “We try to sit with them in the darkness, which is what’s heavy around us. We try to share with them this pain,” showcasing the compassion and resilience of those working toward healing in this challenging environment.
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