NEW YORK, October 1, 2024 (WAFA) - The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Tuesday launched an appeal for $105 million aid over the next three months to assist families and children in Lebanon.

UNICEF warned in a press statement that “the dangerous escalation of the conflict in Lebanon has led to a rapidly deteriorating situation for children with needs outstripping the speed at which humanitarian agencies can respond with lifesaving interventions.”

It affirmed that “the scale and pace of need in Lebanon are overwhelming,” while urgently appealing to the international community to “mobilize humanitarian support and ensure that supply routes into Lebanon remain open, allowing for the rapid and safe delivery of essential supplies to children in need.”

“The escalation in hostilities is catastrophic for all children in Lebanon”, said UNICEF Representative in Lebanon, Edouard Beigbeder. “It has instilled an unimaginable fear in their lives as they are surrounded by uncertainty and violence.  Countless children remain in great danger, exposed to ongoing attacks, forced displacement and unable to rely on an overstretched and under-sourced healthcare system.”

He added that UNICEF was responding to the most critical and immediate needs of children in Lebanon but requires urgent support to sustain and expand its response.

“Children’s homes have been destroyed and, for many, their lives are at risk of being forever altered,” added Beigbeder. “Many have been displaced multiple times, losing homes, parents, and loved ones in the process. These children have the right to protection, along with the vital services they depend on, such as medical facilities and shelters. UNICEF has assisted the children of Lebanon for decades and we are committed to stay and deliver during this critical time.”

K.F.