© UNICEF As the security situation in Lebanon deteriorates, internal displacement is once again on the rise. Lebanon: rising tensions amid new negotiations with Israel Peace and Security
Amid another round of direct talks between Lebanon and Israel taking place in Washington, the UN expressed hope that the ongoing dialogue will help achieve an effective and sustainable ceasefire and pave the way for long-term peace.
The situation on the ground, meanwhile, remains extremely unstable. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) continues to record significant air and ground activity throughout its area of responsibility. The day before, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out several airstrikes in the West and East sectors.
The mission reported 455 incidents of IDF shelling and six shells fired by Lebanese non-state armed groups. Peacekeepers also recorded three missile interceptions over UNIFIL’s area of responsibility.
Meanwhile, a series of drone strikes targeting vehicles in the Jiyeh area, about 20 kilometers south of Beirut, killed at least eight people on Wednesday, including two children, Lebanese authorities said.
As the situation in security sector, the number of internally displaced persons is again growing throughout the country. This morning, Israeli commanders issued evacuation orders for eight villages in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa region. Currently, nearly 130,000 Lebanese are sheltering in 632 collective centers. The scale of destruction and the risk of shelling prevent people from returning home.
Humanitarian access remains limited, especially in the south of the country, hampered by damaged roads and bridges, unexploded ordnance and ongoing fighting.