During my recent visit to #Lebanon in July 2024, I was truly inspired by the resilience of the Lebanese people. Despite the multitude of challenges they face, they continue to find joy and hope. It was a privilege to reconnect with friends and fellow NGO staff and witness firsthand their incredible dedication to responding to emergencies and preparing for possible scenarios.
However, there is a growing sense of anxiety as the situation in Lebanon rapidly escalates, crossing critical thresholds and triggering contingency plans for many.
I am deeply concerned about the multifaceted crisis Lebanon is facing and the potential risk of a full-scale humanitarian catastrophe.
- Lebanon is currently navigating a complex crisis with challenges on multiple fronts, including ongoing conflict, displacement of both refugees and internal populations, economic downturn, and a prolonged political stalemate.
- Escalation of conflict could quickly lead to a full-blown humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by an already strained supply chain. Due to sanctions and associated risks, there is limited access to supplies via the land border with Syria. Although the seaport is undergoing minor rehabilitation, it is not yet fully functional. The airport remains the primary connection point, but there are concerns it could be targeted in a military escalation.
- Political disagreements between parties could create an environment that might lead to further deterioration in the event of escalation, making the situation even more challenging.
- Lebanon is already hosting a significant number of Syrian and Palestinian refugees who face their own challenges and are in dire need of continued support. This situation is further complicated by Lebanon’s own national struggles.
- The health sector is under immense pressure following the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with high needs, limited supplies, and inflation. This situation is further exacerbated by a brain drain, as skilled medical professionals seek better opportunities abroad.
- Daily electricity blackouts lasting up to 20 hours in some areas have become the norm, threatening critical infrastructure, including hospitals.
- Lebanon’s banking sector has been paralyzed, and the ongoing financial crisis has eroded public trust, which could lead to social unrest.
- Lebanon is often caught in the crossfire of regional power struggles. This dangerous situation not only threatens the lives and livelihoods of those in Lebanon but also has the potential to destabilize the entire Middle East.
Additionally, NGOs are grappling with donor fatigue, leading some to downsize operations or close projects.
In these challenging times, it’s crucial that we unite as a global community to support Lebanon. Let’s stand in solidarity with the resilient Lebanese people and our dedicated colleagues on the ground.
#StandWithLebanon #LebanonCrisis #HumanitarianAid
Ali Al Mokdad
