Border disputes causes thousands to be displaced in Lebanon

GENEVA: The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) reported on Monday that approximately 19,646 people have been displaced within Lebanon due to escalating cross-border incidents since early October.

The ongoing tensions at the border between Lebanon and Israel have resulted in a significant displacement of people, both in southern Lebanon and other regions within the country. The IOM anticipates that these numbers may rise further if the cross-border tensions persist or if violence escalates, according to IOM spokesperson Mohammedali Abunajela, who conveyed this information to AFP.

Lebanon is grappling with a deteriorating economic situation and a substantial increase in poverty across all sections of its population, which has placed additional strain on host communities, as pointed out by Abunajela. Moreover, the country’s healthcare system is grappling with severe resource shortages, including shortages of medicines and medical personnel.

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Abunajela expressed his concern, saying, “In this context, responding to large-scale displacement and potential health casualties may overwhelm the already fragile health system.” The healthcare infrastructure, already under immense stress, may struggle to accommodate the needs arising from the displacement of thousands of people and any associated health issues.

The recent upsurge in hostilities along the border follows Israel’s invasion of Gaza and has witnessed frequent clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces. In response to this crisis, most of the displaced individuals are currently finding shelter in host and family settings. Additionally, three designated schools, managed by local authorities, have been repurposed as temporary shelters to accommodate those affected by the border unrest.