UN Raises Alarm Over Lebanese Returning From Syria Amid Conflict

The UN warns that due to worsening conditions in Syria, some Lebanese fleeing the Israel-Hezbollah conflict are choosing to return to Lebanon, despite life-threatening risks. Approximately 560,000 people have crossed into Syria since late September, with concerns growing over returnee numbers and economic conditions in both countries.

The United Nations has expressed grave concern regarding the precarious conditions in Syria that have compelled some Lebanese individuals, who initially sought refuge there due to the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, to consider returning to Lebanon. Gonzalo Vargas Llosa, the UN refugee agency’s representative in Syria, indicated that although the number of returnees is currently small, it reflects a troubling trend. Until now, approximately 560,000 people have fled to Syria from Lebanon since late September following the escalation of warfare, with Lebanese authorities estimating the figure at over 610,000.

Vargas Llosa stated that approximately 65 percent of those crossing into Syria are Syrian nationals who had previously fled to Lebanon. He noted that since 2017, about 400,000 Syrians had returned to their country from Lebanon, whereas the recent weeks have witnessed a similar number of people migrating to Syria. Expressing appreciation for the generous response from local communities in Syria, he warned of the unsustainability of this hospitality due to the dire economic climate within the country.

A concerning trend has emerged, wherein some Lebanese individuals have opted to return to Lebanon daily, averaging up to 50 per day, despite the associated risks. The declining economic conditions in Syria are influencing their decision, as many believe they might find improved support systems, better access to services, and potential economic opportunities in Lebanon. Vargas Llosa cautioned that without significant international aid, the number of returnees could escalate, contributing to growing concerns regarding the situation.

Additionally, a recent decline in the number of new arrivals into Syria points to increased fears among the Lebanese and Syrians following intense bombardments of border crossings. Vargas Llosa has urged the parties involved to cease such attacks which endanger lives and hinder safe movement.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has caused significant distress in the region, particularly affecting Lebanon and its neighboring areas like Syria. As violence escalated into full-scale war, the UN reports that many people sought sanctuary across borders. However, Syria itself has been suffering from a prolonged civil war, resulting in substantial humanitarian challenges, which have now begun to impact returnees from Lebanon. The complex dynamics of regional instability, economic hardship, and the humanitarian response frame the critical issues at stake for both Lebanese and Syrian nationals.

In summary, the United Nations has highlighted an alarming shift, where some Lebanese who fled to Syria are perilously contemplating a return to Lebanon under extremely challenging conditions. The ongoing humanitarian crises in both Lebanon and Syria, exacerbated by the conflict, continue to threaten the safety and well-being of the populations involved. The UN urges for international support to address these dire circumstances to prevent further deterioration of the situation, emphasizing that even the smallest trends signal a significant need for action.

Original Source: thesun.my