Lebanon: the crisis does not end when the bombs fall silent

28/07/2026

While the world’s attention often turns to other conflicts, people in Lebanon continue to pay a heavy price. The escalation of the conflict between Israel, the United States and Iran has triggered a new humanitarian crisis. Although a ceasefire has been announced, the crisis is far from over for thousands of families. Many still do not know when — or even whether — they will ever be able to return home.

A new humanitarian crisis

The Israeli army has expanded its occupation and control over parts of south-western Syria. At the same time, it has carried out major air strikes in southern Lebanon, with the stated aim of creating a “secure buffer zone” along the border. The consequences for civilians have been devastating. More than one million people were forced to flee at a moment’s notice, taking only what they could carry or load into their cars. That is nearly one fifth of Lebanon’s population. Overnight, entire families were left without shelter and in urgent need of safe drinking water, food and medical care.

Even after the fighting ends, the needs remain immense

Even if a ceasefire is agreed and upheld, the consequences of this crisis will continue to be felt for a long time. Since the ceasefire was announced in mid-April, more than 400 people have already lost their lives.

For thousands of families, there is no longer any future in their home village. Homes and infrastructure have been systematically destroyed. After the air strikes, bulldozers moved in to demolish what was still standing. Thousands of homes and dozens of localities have been completely wiped off the map.

Host communities are also coming under increasing strain. After months of forced displacement, even the remarkable solidarity they have shown is under growing pressure.

Caritas Lebanon’s support remains essential

Present from the very first days of the crisis, Caritas Lebanon responded both in the areas hardest hit and in the regions hosting displaced families. Thanks to this commitment, tens of thousands of people have been able to receive emergency assistance.

Today, this support remains essential. Most displaced people are still unable to return home, and humanitarian needs remain immense.

Yet the teams of Caritas Lebanon and more than 1,700 volunteers continue their work day after day. Although they too are directly affected by the conflict and the humanitarian crisis, they continue to provide food, shelter, medical care, psychosocial support and other essential assistance to families in need.

Thanks to the solidarity of the Caritas network around the world, including Caritas International Belgium, thousands of people have already received support.

Rebuilding will take time

Lasting peace will depend not only on a broader regional solution. It will also require the patient rebuilding of a society once again deeply scarred by war.

For thousands of families, the crisis does not end when the bombs fall silent. That is why Caritas Lebanon remains by their side today and throughout the long road to recovery.

Would you like to support us? Thanks to your support, our colleagues can continue to assist families with emergency aid, medical care and psychosocial support.