UNICEF is protecting the children

Since October 2023, the almost daily exchanges of rocket and missile fire between Israel and the armed branch of the Lebanese Hezbollah have intensified at an alarming rate. Humanitarian aid is crucial to provide affected children with the vital and immediate assistance they desperately need. 

Tragic Figures 

A dramatic escalation 

In recent days, the conflict in Lebanon has escalated dramatically. Since 23 September, Israeli attacks have targeted southern Lebanon, the Bekaa region, and the southern suburbs of Beirut, resulting in the most violent day the country has seen in 18 years. The current level of violence is causing more child casualties daily than during the 2006 conflict, and hospitals are struggling to cope with the overwhelming number of injured. 

‘I am speaking to you from Lebanon to highlight the situation of children in light of the dangerous escalation that has had adverse effects on their physical and mental well-being.’ Ettie Higgins, UNICEF Deputy Representative to Lebanon 

Displacement, trauma and poverty

Thousands of families, forced to flee their homes, were left stranded on the streets for hours amid a mass exodus to safer areas. Within 72 hours, over 70.000 people had sought refuge in shelters, according to Lebanon’s disaster risk management unit. 

Even before this new wave of violence, 20.000 Lebanese children were already grappling with severe psychological distress, including anxiety and deep depression. This number has likely increased in recent days. 

For nearly five years, Lebanon has been enduring its worst economic and social crisis, leaving families in an extremely vulnerable state. Today, 75% of Lebanese children are at risk of falling into poverty. 

‘The situation in Lebanon, already teetering on the brink, has moved from crisis to catastrophe. The suffering of children must stop.’  Edouard Beigbeder, représentant de l’UNICEF au Liban 

Our work on the ground 

UNICEF has been present in Lebanon for 76 years and has now stepped up its activities in the face of escalating tensions. Our priority is to respond to essential needs, such as access to water and food, as well as the distribution of essential supplies (mattresses, medicines, hygiene kits) to displaced families. 

To date (02/10/2024), we have delivered:

• More than 100 tonnes of emergency medical supplies to hospitals 
• 6.900 hygiene kits
• 1.440 baby kits 
• 200.000 litres of water 
• 11.000 blankets 
• 3.000 sleeping bags 

These supplies have so far benefited around 50.000 displaced people in 150 shelters. 

UNICEF appeal 

UNICEF reiterates its urgent appeal for immediate de-escalation and calls for : 

• Priority protection for children : The protection of the rights, safety and well-being of children, in accordance with international humanitarian law and human rights, is primordial. 
• Guaranteed access to education for all children: All children must have the opportunity to learn, whether through formal or non-formal educational channels. 
• Protection of civilian infrastructure, including hospitals: UNICEF urges all parties involved in the conflict to refrain from any action that would prevent children’s access to education and health services. 
• Support for communities: Immediate humanitarian assistance is needed to guarantee access to essential services such as healthcare, education, drinking water and sanitation. 

Vital medicines for 400 people for one month

92 €

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4 nutrition kits (micronutrient powder, therapeutic milk and biscuits, emergency food, oral rehydration salts and malnutrition tests)

120 €

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5 ‘soap & clean water’ emergency kits (containers, buckets, soap, water purification tablets)

175 €

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