Geneva, March 25 (SANA) The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said more than 130,000 people have crossed from Lebanon into Syria since the beginning of March, as rising tensions in the Middle East trigger large-scale displacement.
The movement comes as Lebanon faces internal displacement exceeding one million people, driven by the ongoing Israeli attacks on various parts of Lebanon.
IOM Director General Amy Pope said the increasing pace of displacement is placing additional strain on already vulnerable communities and driving up humanitarian needs.
She warned that the situation could deteriorate further without sustained international support, echoing calls by the United Nations for de-escalation, protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law.
Separately, the U.N. refugee agency (UNHCR) said more than 80,000 Syrians have returned from Lebanon since March 2. UNHCR spokesperson in Syria, Celine Schmitt, added the agency is working with Syrian authorities to support those arriving.
Border crossings between the two countries have seen a surge in returns in recent weeks, linked to escalating regional tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran, according to humanitarian agencies.
Officials said government and aid organizations remain on high alert as movements continue and humanitarian needs expand.
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