Geneva [Switzerland], October 16: United Nations agencies have called for an urgent increase in funding to deal with the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Lebanon as the Israeli military continues its offensive against Hezbollah.
UNICEF and the World Food Programme (WFP) warned in a joint statement on Tuesday that the fighting, which has displaced hundreds of thousands in Lebanon, has "triggered a catastrophe".
"We are preparing for the reality that the needs are increasing," the agencies said. "We need additional funding, without conditionalities." Lebanese officials have said 1.2 million people have been affected by the conflict, in which Israel has conducted air attacks on Beirut and many other parts of Lebanon, as well as sending ground troops into the south.
"Around 1.2 million people have been affected, with a significant impact on vulnerable communities," the statement cautioned. "Nearly 190,000 displaced individuals are currently sheltered in over 1,000 facilities, while hundreds of thousands more are seeking safety among family and friends."
In addition, hundreds of thousands have crossed into Syria, the statement notes, further complicating the humanitarian response.
The UN agencies say they are working to deliver vital support. WFP is meeting the needs of approximately 200,000 people daily with ready-to-eat food and cash.
UNICEF said it is delivering essential support to children and families, including primary healthcare, water and hygiene kits, mattresses and blankets, and psychosocial support services, in cooperation with the Lebanese government.
The agency has warned of a "lost generation" in Lebanon, saying 400,000 children have been displaced in the three weeks since major hostilities broke out.
Source: Qatar Tribune