On September 23, Israel launched intense air strikes across areas of Lebanon, marking the deadliest day of Israeli strikes in Lebanon since the 2006 war. Overall, the number of people killed in the last year has reached over 2,000, with more than 9,000 wounded. Displaced families are currently seeking shelter in schools and hospitals are being instructed to halt operations to prioritize treating survivors of the attacks, which have targeted hospitals themselves as well as medical centers and ambulances.

IRUSA is working with local partners to provide immediate emergency assistance including food aid, essential non-food items like hygiene kits, and medicine/medical supplies to families in desperate need. 

Lebanon has entered its fifth year of a crippling economic crisis, pushing more than 80% of people into poverty without access to food, water, health care, and education. Fuel shortages have also caused widespread electricity blackouts, leaving large portions of the country in the dark for up to 23 hours per day. In turn, hospitals, schools, and small local businesses are struggling to operate. 

To add, Lebanon plays host to a large population of refugees. Currently, it’s home to nearly 1.5 million Syrian refugees as well as 210,000 Palestinian refugees. In response to the current crisis, the government has provided little to no support to families struggling to cope. Inadequate policy responses have left vulnerable people to fight for themselves.

Thanks to you, we’ve been able to accomplish so much. But there’s still so much more to do. By continuing to support our efforts in Lebanon, you can help make a difference in the lives of those in desperate need.