Lebanon: Escalating Tensions and Mass Displacement

In Lebanon, amid growing regional tensions and the involvement of various actors linked to the conflict revolving around Iran, the attacks are causing thousands of displacements and worsening an already fragile humanitarian situation. The incursion of Israeli forces into the country has further heightened tensions, in a scenario that strongly recalls October 2024. The south of the country, particularly the Nabatiyyeh region, has experienced intense bombardments in recent hours, forcing numerous families to flee their homes overnight in search of safety.

Salesian Centers Open Their Doors

In response, the Salesians have reopened their doors to shelter displaced families. At the “Don Bosco – El Houssoun” center in Jbeil, Lebanon, about 30 kilometers north of Beirut, around 120 people from approximately 30 families are already being hosted, including about 50 children and 10 elderly individuals in vulnerable conditions. “We are certain that in the coming hours and days this number will increase,” they add with concern. “We must guarantee basic necessities for all these people—warm clothing, food, water—and this is what we are focusing on,” they state from Lebanon. Many families arrived after 16 hours of travel to cover just 110 kilometers, due to massive traffic jams caused by the exodus of people fleeing the bombings. Classrooms at the center were quickly transformed into reception spaces with mattresses, blankets, and basic humanitarian aid kits, while Salesians, staff, and volunteers organize assistance for the families.

Concerns in the West Bank

“We are also worried about the lack of fuel in the West Bank, as many families have no way to heat their homes or cook, including our own communities, such as the one in Cremisan,” explains the Salesian leader for the Middle East.

A Network Ready to Respond

“Once again, we find ourselves facing a complicated situation, but our entire network—Salesians, staff members, volunteers—is ready to help communities in Lebanon, Palestine, and Israel as quickly as possible,” concludes Fr. Zakerian. For this reason, Misiones Salesianas, the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid, Spain, is already working together with the Salesians in the Middle East and the Salesian solidarity network to organize the necessary aid. It once again appeals to all citizens to channel their solidarity toward those in need. “It is not only about giving a blanket or bread, but about bringing hope to those who are now living in such a difficult situation,” emphasizes Fr. Luis Manuel Moral, director of Misiones Salesianas.

An Appeal for Peace

“Furthermore,” he concludes, “we join the words of Pope Leo XIV, who calls on us to ‘seek a way to stop the spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss,’ and we urge all parties to lay down their weapons and threats and to seek lasting peace through dialogue.”

For further information, visit: www.misionessalesianas.org