Since October 7, 2023, escalating regional tensions have spread across the Middle East. The crisis in the Holy Land has intensified, with the conflict now reaching Lebanon. On September 17, it led to over 5,275 casualties, including 589 deaths. From September 23 to 25 alone, there have been 610 deaths (including 50 children, 94 women, and four medics) and at least 2,000 more casualties. Southern Lebanon’s infrastructure has been devastated, leaving thousands of civilians homeless and residents with limited access to essential services like water, electricity, and healthcare.

Caritas Lebanon is focused on delivering crucial aid to the people of Lebanon. This includes emergency medical care, clean water, and support for displaced families. Despite ongoing violence, they remain committed to addressing the immediate needs of those affected, helping communities find stability and begin rebuilding.

Lebanon has faced years of humanitarian difficulties due to socioeconomic challenges and insecurity, especially in the south, while hosting many Syrian refugees who still need critical assistance. Since October 2023, regional tensions have displaced nearly 90,000 people from southern Lebanon, increasing the need for shelter, food, and cash aid.

The recent violence has caused even more loss of civilian lives, injuries, and forced people from their homes. Over 21,000 people are now in temporary shelters, with thousands more displaced and seeking safety wherever they can find it. Schools have been opened to host internally displaced persons, but there is a severe shortage of essential resources like water, food, mattresses, and blankets.

Since the conflict began, Caritas Lebanon has been providing urgent aid to displaced people. This includes medical consultations, medications, vaccinations, physiotherapy, nursing care, and protection services like legal aid, safe shelter, and access to education. Basic assistance, such as cash, food kits, hygiene supplies, and winterization kits, remains critical. By 29 September, Caritas had assisted 24,355 displaced people in shelters, delivering 79,233 hot meals, 821 hygiene kits, 4,427 clothing items, 1,190 food kits, 800 blankets, 1,034 units of water, and various healthcare services.

As the demand grows, Caritas Lebanon is working at full capacity to meet the urgent needs of those affected. Despite prepositioned funds and agreements, resources remain limited. They continue to provide hot meals, food parcels, non-food essentials, shelter support, and medical services through Primary Healthcare Centers and Mobile Medical Units. Hundreds of Caritas volunteers are actively involved in distributing aid and setting up shelters for those displaced by the crisis.

Caritas Internationalis is actively coordinating with Caritas Lebanon and other global partners to stay updated on evolving needs and lead targeted responses for those affected by the conflict. During these critical times, your support is essential in bringing relief and hope to people impacted by this devastating crisis.