Beirut: The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) reported on Wednesday that escalating Israeli military operations in South Lebanon over the past 24 hours have led to the displacement of approximately 60,000 Lebanese residents from their homes, including 18,000 children.
According to Jordan News Agency, UNICEF's statement, published on its official website, revealed that seven children have been killed and dozens injured in the ongoing conflict. The organization noted that the increase in child casualties is occurring alongside intensified airstrikes targeting various regions, resulting in extensive displacement and worsening the already precarious humanitarian situation in the area.
The statement further detailed that over 12,000 families have sought refuge in 300 shelters spread across Lebanon, with many of these shelters already reaching their capacity limits. UNICEF emphasized the urgent need for funding to address the crisis, outlining a requirement of $48 million to assist one million people affected by the conflict. However, only 16 percent of the necessary funding has been secured to date.