Israel-Hezbollah Tensions Displace 19,000 and Threaten to Escalate: UN Agency Warns of Impending Humanitarian Crisis in Lebanon

The ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have led to the displacement of over 19,000 people in Lebanon, according to figures released by a United Nations agency. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that the number of displaced individuals is expected to rise as cross-border tensions continue or if there is an escalation in violence. This comes after Hamas militants stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of over 1,400 people, mainly civilians, according to Israeli officials.

Israel's retaliatory bombing campaign has led to the deaths of more than 5,000 Palestinians, predominantly civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. There are concerns that Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Shia Muslim group, may open a front from Lebanon to support its ally Hamas, prompting cross-border strikes and bombardments on Lebanon from Israel. As a result, dozens of communities in Israel have been told to evacuate while thousands of Lebanese civilians have fled to other parts of the country or outside the capital Beirut. Lebanon, already grappling with political paralysis and a four-year-long economic crisis, has not implemented an evacuation plan, but Prime Minister Najib Mikati has stated that the country is developing an emergency response as a precaution.

The IOM has expressed concern for the already fragile healthcare system in Lebanon, which is facing severe resource shortages, including medicines and medical personnel. The displacement of individuals amidst the deteriorating economic situation and rising poverty may further strain the resources of host communities. Currently, most of the displaced individuals are being sheltered in host and family settings, with three designated schools also being used as shelters. However, there is a need for additional centers, as seen in the southern city of Tyre, where families have sought refuge in public schools.

The situation has resulted in casualties on both sides, with at least 40 people killed on the Lebanese side, including combatants and civilians, and four deaths in Israel, including soldiers and a civilian. Analysts have warned that the involvement of Hezbollah could escalate if there is an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza. This crisis has exacerbated the already strained basic services in Lebanon, such as electricity, healthcare, and education. The IOM stresses that responding to large-scale displacement and potential health casualties may overwhelm the already fragile health system in the country.