New York, June 16 (SANA) The United Nations has warned of a worsening humanitarian situation in Lebanon amid continuing Israeli attacks and large-scale population displacement, stressing the importance of ensuring sustained humanitarian assistance and bringing hostilities to an end.
According to UN News, Anandita Philipose, representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Lebanon, said that the number of displaced people in the country has reached around 1.4 million, representing more than 20 percent of Lebanon’s population.
Philipose noted that approximately 16,000 pregnant women are among those displaced and are facing increasing difficulties in accessing healthcare services.
She added that women and girls account for more than half of the displaced population, noting that displacement levels in Lebanon are among the highest globally.
Philipose said Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanese areas have damaged healthcare centers and hospitals, placing additional pressure on the country’s health sector.
She explained that UNFPA relies on mobile clinics to reach affected communities, but stressed that such services cannot replace specialized medical care. She renewed calls for the continued flow of humanitarian aid and an end to hostilities.
Regarding funding, Philipose said the United Nations had launched an urgent humanitarian appeal worth $25 million to meet growing needs. However, funding levels remain below requirements, she said, warning that any further reduction in support would force cuts to essential services, including mobile clinics, midwifery services, social workers and protection programs.
Earlier this month, the United Nations launched an additional humanitarian appeal seeking $331.5 million to support relief efforts in Lebanon.
Despite a ceasefire announced on April 17, Israeli bombardments continue on a near-daily basis in several areas of Lebanon, causing casualties and injuries. Israeli forces have also continued issuing evacuation warnings to dozens of villages in southern Lebanon and carrying out demolitions of homes.
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