Massive Exodus from Lebanon Following Israeli Attacks
New Delhi | Desk: Lebanon is facing a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale, as Prime Minister Najib Mikati warned that recent Israeli airstrikes could trigger the “biggest exodus” the country has ever seen. Speaking at an emergency cabinet meeting on Sunday, PM Mikati stressed that the escalating conflict could lead to over one million people being displaced.
Following the emergency meeting, Mikati addressed the press, stating, “The number of displaced people could potentially reach one million, particularly in regions already devastated by airstrikes, including the southern parts of Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley in the east.”
The prime minister further highlighted that a significant portion of those fleeing are not Lebanese citizens, complicating the already dire humanitarian situation. Many of the displaced include refugees from Syria and other neighboring nations, who had sought shelter in Lebanon, only to find themselves trapped in the crossfire once more.
The United Nations has swiftly responded to the crisis, with UN agencies launching emergency relief operations aimed at supporting the one million displaced individuals. The international body has warned that resources are stretched thin, and called for urgent global assistance.
In a bid to prevent further escalation, PM Mikati reiterated his stance on diplomacy, emphasizing that “there is no other way but through diplomacy” to resolve the conflict. He voiced concerns over the catastrophic consequences if hostilities were to continue unabated.
Talks between Lebanon and Israel for a ceasefire have been ongoing, though a concrete resolution has yet to be reached. However, in a notable shift in tone, Mikati told journalists he “welcomes” any move towards a ceasefire, stressing that it should not be limited to Gaza but must also encompass Lebanon to halt the suffering of civilians.
“The conflict must come to an end for the sake of humanity, and if a ceasefire is possible, it should apply to both Gaza and Lebanon equally,” PM Mikati stated, expressing hope for a peaceful resolution.
The unfolding situation has left Lebanon on the brink of a new refugee crisis, with many fearing that the strain on already scarce resources will push the nation into deeper economic and social turmoil.
