Adnan Abu Hasna, the media advisor for United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Middle East, told The New Arab’s Arabic language site Al-Araby Al-Jadeed that “the UNRWA will continue its operations in Lebanon and will not abandon its mission”, highlighting that “the refugees’ hardships had worsened due to the Israeli aggression on Lebanese territories, leading to increased displacement.”
Abu Hasna noted that “UNRWA has activated its emergency response in Lebanon, establishing 11 shelter centers across the country, hosting thousands of displaced individuals, including Palestinians, Lebanese, and Syrians. The agency is doing its best to provide essential, life-saving services, focusing on education, psychosocial support, and providing mattresses, blankets, and hot meals.”
Addressing Palestinian refugees’ protests over UNRWA’s limited service levels and perceived shortcomings, Abu Hasna stated, “This crisis is immense, and the agency cannot single-handedly handle the major challenges posed by the Israeli attacks. The displacement from Rashidieh Camp in Tyre, southern Lebanon, on Thursday has added to the burdens on UNRWA and Palestinian refugees but is part of the larger crisis unfolding in Lebanon.”
He added, “UNRWA won’t be able to meet all needs, as seen in Gaza, due to obstacles and funding shortages, yet we’re working hard to support the displaced as much as possible.”
UNRWA continues its regular operations, adjusting its interventions as needed in its five main areas: the south, Sidon, central Lebanon (Beirut), Bekaa, and the north.
Activities in Tyre remain suspended, providing only minimal water and sanitation services. Sidon, Bekaa, and Beirut operate under emergency conditions, with limited movement focused on life-saving and essential services.Â
