258,000 displaced into Syria amid escalating conflict in Lebanon
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Since Sep. 23, an estimated 258,000 people have fled from Lebanon into Syria due to the intensifying hostilities in Lebanon, UNICEF said on Friday.
The UNICEF added that among the 258,000 people who crossed the border, approximately 30 percent are Lebanese nationals, while 58 percent are children, highlighting the crisis’ severe impact on vulnerable populations.
Crossings through the Jdeidat Yabous official border, west of Damascus, have slowed after airstrikes on Oct. 4 damaged the main road between Lebanon and Syria.
Further airstrikes on Oct. 10 targeted both the Jdeidat Yabous border in the countryside of Damascus and the city of al-Qusayr, south of Homs, exacerbating the situation for those attempting to flee.
Lebanon’s recent conflict escalation comes after years of political and economic turmoil. Following the 1975-1990 civil war, Lebanon has struggled with internal strife and external conflicts, including clashes between Hezbollah and Israel.
The 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel resulted in heavy casualties and widespread destruction in Lebanon.
In recent months, tensions between Hezbollah and Israel have led to renewed violence. Israeli airstrikes have frequently targeted Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon and Syria, where the militant group operates.
The Syrian conflict, which began in 2011, has further complicated the region, as Hezbollah has been involved in supporting the Syrian government.
Israeli strikes on Syria have primarily targeted Hezbollah positions, Iranian assets, and arms shipments in an effort to curb the group’s influence.