Recent Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have led to the displacement of approximately 140,000 children, with many showing signs of severe distress upon arriving at shelters, according to a statement released by Save the Children on Thursday.
The statement further revealed that over 400,000 individuals have been displaced since the start of the Israeli airstrikes on Sunday, marking a significant escalation in cross-border violence. The numbers are expected to rise in the coming days as the conflict persists.
Lebanon's health minister, Dr. Firass Abiad, estimated that the actual number of internally displaced people could be between 400,000 to 500,000, surpassing the officially recorded figures. He highlighted that while authorities are aware of those internally displaced in official shelters, there are many more who have sought refuge with relatives, friends, or even strangers offering accommodation.
Save the Children expressed deep concern over the psychological impact of the conflict on children, noting that many are exhibiting signs of severe distress due to the displacement and ongoing shelling. The closure of numerous schools across Lebanon has also raised alarms, affecting all 1.5 million children in the country and exacerbating its existing mental health crisis.
The humanitarian organization emphasized that children are feeling unsafe and constantly on edge, with every loud noise triggering fear and anxiety. The escalating crisis has disrupted the lives, rights, and futures of many children, further diminishing their ability to cope with the unfolding situation.
