Lebanon Faces Worsening Humanitarian Crisis Amid Intense Airstrikes
BEIRUT / NEW YORK CITY — Lebanon is spiraling into a severe humanitarian crisis as Israeli airstrikes escalate, with the country excluded from the recent US-Iran ceasefire. On Wednesday, Israel launched over 100 airstrikes in just 10 minutes across southern Lebanon, the Beqaa Valley, and Beirut’s outskirts, marking the most intense bombardment since the current conflict began.
Immediate Toll and Displacement
UN officials reported that at least 112 people were killed on Wednesday alone, with the true death toll likely in the hundreds. Earlier strikes, including one on a cafe in Saida, killed eight people. Hospitals are urgently requesting blood donations, while rescue operations continue amid widespread destruction.
Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health confirmed that between March 2 and April 7, 1,530 people were killed and 4,812 injured. The casualties include 130 children and 102 women. More than 1.1 million people—nearly 20% of the population—have been displaced, with over 138,000 taking shelter in schools and community centers, while almost a million live in host communities and informal settlements.
Impact on Women and Vulnerable Groups
UN Population Fund regional director Laila Baker highlighted the disproportionate impact on women and girls, who make up more than half of the displaced population—around 620,000 people. Among them are approximately 13,500 pregnant women, many struggling to access essential maternal care. In southern Lebanon alone, about 1,700 pregnant women lack access to basic services, with around 200 expected to give birth within the next month under unsafe conditions.
“Women and girls are carrying an unprecedented burden,” Baker said, noting that many mothers are fleeing with children and no belongings, and births are occurring in overcrowded shelters without medical support or privacy.
Strain on Healthcare and Infrastructure
The conflict has severely damaged Lebanon’s infrastructure, particularly healthcare. More than 100 medical facilities have been attacked, forcing hospitals and clinics to close or operate under extreme pressure. Education has also been disrupted, as schools and universities serve as temporary shelters. Remote learning faces obstacles due to displacement, electricity shortages, and poor connectivity.
Humanitarian Response and Funding Gaps
Despite the challenges, UN agencies and local partners continue providing aid. Over 4 million meals have been delivered, 130,000 blankets and 105,000 mattresses distributed, and financial support given to roughly 100,000 families living outside shelters. Mobile health clinics, midwives, and essential supplies are being deployed.
However, humanitarian efforts face severe funding shortages. A $308 million emergency appeal launched in March has received only 30.7% of needed funds, while the Population Fund’s $12 million appeal remains underfunded, threatening critical services.
“Every day of inaction costs lives,” Baker warned, emphasizing the urgent need for increased funding, immediate cessation of hostilities, and respect for international humanitarian law.
Calls for Immediate Action
UN officials stressed that de-escalation and dialogue are essential to prevent further suffering. Imran Riza, the UN’s resident and humanitarian coordinator in Lebanon, said, “There is no military solution. The escalation must stop.” Baker added that lasting peace is crucial for Lebanon to begin rebuilding and avoid deeper humanitarian and societal collapse.
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