Recent reports from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have shed light on the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region, with approximately 160,000 individuals crossing the border from Lebanon into Syria in response to the recent hostilities in Lebanon. This mass exodus comes in the wake of Israel's air campaign against Hezbollah in Lebanon, which commenced on September 23.
According to the UNHCR, the influx of refugees into Syria has seen a significant decrease as of Wednesday, following a continuous flow of arrivals in the preceding days. Initially estimated at around 100,000 individuals by UNHCR spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh, the current figure now stands at approximately 160,000, with the majority comprising Syrian nationals, accounting for about 70% of the total number. The remaining 30% consists of Lebanese citizens.
The migration pattern indicates that the vast majority of individuals are departing from eastern regions of Lebanon, heading towards the Syrian capital of Damascus. This movement underscores the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and support for those displaced by the ongoing conflict in the area.