Beirut, Lebanon, September 24, 2024 — The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is deeply concerned by the escalating conflict in Lebanon, which has left over 500 people killed, including 94 women and 50 children, and over 1,800 injured, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health.
The IRC has been working in Lebanon since 2012 delivering relief programmes to Lebanese citizens and refugees. IRC teams in Lebanon are now conducting rapid needs assessments which will support our emergency response to support those affected by the ongoing fighting. However, ongoing insecurity may significantly hinder our ability to deliver vital assistance to those in need. IRC staff members and partner organisations have already been directly impacted by the attacks which have forced families to flee their homes.
Amidst the ongoing Israeli airstrikes on the heavily populated areas of Beirut, South and Bekaa, tens of thousands are facing fresh displacement, with over 102,000 people already displaced since October 2023. In a region already devastated by conflict, displacement, and poverty the last thing civilians need is war. It is essential that humanitarian actors are able to safely assess needs and deliver emergency aid.
The IRC urges all parties to urgently seek a diplomatic solution and avoid a regional conflagration and more humanitarian suffering. International law must be upheld to protect civilians and aid workers.
The IRC in Lebanon
The IRC has been working in Lebanon since 2012 delivering relief programmes to Lebanese citizens and refugees. The IRC provides emergency and long-term support to people affected by, and recovering from, these overlapping crises. We offer legal services, protection, education, health including mental, sexual and reproductive health, and economic support to people affected by and recovering from crises.