Lebanon Faces Humanitarian Crisis Amid Escalating Violence
In response to the ongoing Israeli bombardment in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese government has taken urgent steps to address the humanitarian crisis resulting from the displacement of thousands. On Monday, the Minister of Interior and Municipalities, Bassam Mawlawi, directed governors to open schools and institutes to shelter those fleeing the violence. This decision comes as the Lebanese Education Minister, Abbas Al-Halabi, announced a two-day suspension of school activities in the south, coinciding with the mass displacement from cities like Tyre towards Sidon.
The escalation of violence has resulted in severe casualties, with the Lebanese Ministry of Health reporting at least 182 deaths and over 700 injuries, including children and paramedics, due to the Israeli attacks on the eastern and southern regions of the country. The situation has led to significant congestion on the main streets of Sidon as residents flee the violence. Reports indicate that the bombardment has created a dire humanitarian situation, prompting the need for immediate assistance and shelter for those affected.
Travel and Tourism Hit Hard by Conflict
The conflict has also severely impacted Lebanon's travel sector, with Jean Abboud, the head of the Syndicate of Owners of Tourism and Travel Agencies, reporting a 30-40% decline in passenger traffic at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. This decline is attributed to the suspension of flights by 14 airlines, including major carriers like Swiss Air, Air France, and Lufthansa, due to the escalating security situation. While some airlines have ceased operations, Lebanese Middle East Airlines is stepping in to provide additional flights to accommodate travelers.
As the situation continues to develop, the Israeli military has intensified its operations against Hezbollah, leading to ongoing retaliatory rocket fire from the group into Israeli territories. Sirens have been sounding in Israeli settlements near the border, indicating the heightened state of conflict. The humanitarian crisis in Lebanon is deepening, with urgent calls for international support to assist those displaced by the violence.
