Lebanon refugee crisis: Over 77,000 seek shelter as Israeli air raids spread

Lebanon’s Environment Minister, Nasser Yassin, revealed that more than 77,000 people have taken refuge in evacuation centres across the country, with estimates suggesting the displaced population exceeds 250,000.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Minister Yassin disclosed the collaborative efforts of local ministries, municipalities, and international organizations to ensure effective aid distribution.

However, Yassin acknowledged the numerous challenges they face, stating, “We are trying our best to manage our response, but the challenges are many.” Lebanon’s refugee crisis is part of a larger issue, with the country hosting the largest number of refugees per capita globally, putting immense strain on its institutions, infrastructure, and economy.

The situation remains volatile, particularly in southern Lebanon, where ongoing hostilities have displaced scores of residents. As the crisis deepens, concerns grow about the long-term impact on Lebanon’s stability and the well-being of its citizens.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has told world leaders that Tel Aviv will “continue degrading Hezbollah” until it achieves its goals along the Lebanon border, despite calls for an internationally backed cease-fire to curtail the spiral spread of the conflict into an all-out regional war.

“Israel has every right to remove this threat and return our citizens to their home safely. And that’s exactly what we’re doing … we’ll continue degrading Hezbollah until all our objectives are met,” Netanyahu said.