Massive airstrikes in Lebanon kill and injure hundreds

In the face of the absolute humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, a regional escalation is taking place. On Monday, September 23, Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon killed 600 and injured 2000 people in just one day, as reported by the Lebanese Ministry of Health.

HI is deeply concerned by this degradation of the regional situation and the growing humanitarian needs in the area. The association strongly condemns all attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure in the north of Israel and in Lebanon. HI calls on all parties to the conflict to de-escalate, immediately protect civilians and respect international humanitarian law to prevent further degradation of the already dire humanitarian situation.

“We condemn thes massive and indiscriminate bombing and shelling that took place in populated areas. Civilians must be protected from any armed violence.”

International Programs Director Florence Daunis  

Thousands of residents from southern and eastern Lebanon fled cities, towns and villages on Monday following the attacks. Mass displacement has also forced people to seek refuge in neighbouring Syria, that has itself been reeling from 14 years of civil war.

Rocket attacks from Hezbollah intensified over the last few days, with around 450 rockets fired towards northern Israel and the surrounding areas since Saturday, September 21. Since the escalation of violence with Hezbollah, 60,000 people in northern Israel have been forced to flee.  

HI assists people in need

HI has been operating in Lebanon since 1992, and currently provides assistance in several areas of the country, including in the south, near the border with Israel, where more than 100,000 were displaced since the escalation of violence in late 2023.  

"Following the massive attacks yesterday, more than half of our teams are displaced and looking for alternate accommodation. Thankfully, everyone is safe for the time being. We continue our response in the country, including with partners in South Lebanon towards people impacted by the escalation of violence. Some members of our team are working remotely."

Lebanon Country Director Aurélien Thienpont  

HI’s actions in South of Lebanon  

HI has 87 employees in Lebanon. In response to the emergency in the South Lebanon in the last 11 months HI and 4 partners have assisted the displaced population by:  

• Providing 1,100 mobility aids (crutches, wheelchairs, etc.) and 2,314 packs of diapers for distribution by our partners;  
• Training 75 Lebanese civil security volunteers to include the needs of people with disabilities in evacuation preparedness and the management of displaced people;
• Training 70 partner staff to provide psychological support for the displaced population;  
• Training 80 physical therapists in emergency rehabilitation, in partnership with the Lebanese Order of Physiotherapists and the International Committee of the Red Cross;  
• Conducting explosive ordnance risk education and conflict preparedness sessions for 5,200 participants.

HI operations were halted for two days following the deadly airstrikes. The situation remains unpredictable. In coming days and weeks, HI will prioritize providing capacity and supply support to hospitals and partners. Should the situation escalate further, we may face an acute housing shortage for displaced populations, further economic deterioration, and rising humanitarian needs.  

This situation is even more alarming for people with disabilities, who are disproportionately affected by the ongoing crises in Lebanon and have specific needs.

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