Civilians in Lebanon - particularly in the volatile south - are grappling with constant threats of violence, high levels of displacement and economic deprivation, as the standoff between Israel and Hezbollah militants continues in the shadow of the Gaza war.

Fadel Saleh, from the UN aid coordination office (OCHA) in Lebanon, told UN News that tens of thousands of people are unable to access basic services such as water facilities – while crucial civilian infrastructure such as markets and farms have been severely damaged amidst the cross-border exchange of fire.  

He told Khaled Mohamed any “uncontrolled conflict” that erupts could impact up to a million people, while “controlled conflict” will still affect 250,000, calling for a major increase in humanitarian funding for Lebanon.