From the Lebanese capital, Beirut, Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, called for increased international support to address the humanitarian crisis sweeping Lebanon. He emphasized that assisting those affected by the escalation is an urgent moral imperative.
High Commissioner Grandi visited Beirut to express solidarity with Lebanon and to mobilize further support for all affected individuals, including both Lebanese citizens and refugees. During his visit, Grandi met with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati and other senior officials, as well as UN teams, the humanitarian community, UNHCR staff, and displaced families.
Grandi stated: “Today, I witnessed the tragic losses this conflict has inflicted on entire communities. International humanitarian law must be respected and cannot be ignored. Families have been left homeless and stranded outdoors, while children are traumatized and unable to comprehend what is happening.”
The UN official added that the displaced people he met shared their urgent need for safety and a halt to airstrikes so they can return to their towns and villages. He stressed that assisting those affected by this latest escalation is an urgent moral obligation.
The UNHCR reported that government-run shelters have become extremely overcrowded as large numbers of people were displaced within the country over just two weeks. The agency is working with humanitarian partners and authorities to urgently provide safe shelter for all in need.
UNHCR support also includes essential relief items, cash assistance, shelter materials, and medical care. The agency highlighted the critical need for the international community to significantly increase funding so humanitarian workers can respond effectively.
During his visit, Grandi also met Syrian refugees displaced in Beirut’s Nabaa neighborhood. He praised Lebanon’s generosity in hosting numerous refugees over the years, including those forced to flee Syria, despite the significant challenges faced. He noted that these refugees are now forced to flee again with limited resources and no safe place to go.
