Children in Lebanon are enduring crisis on top of crisis.
Set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean coast and mountainous terrain, Lebanon is a nation with a captivating blend of cultures and traditions. It has grappled with political and economic challenges, including a prolonged civil war from 1975 to 1990, from which the country is still recovering.
Today, Lebanon is experiencing compounding challenges. With high unemployment rates, children are leaving school early to help supplement household income, creating an education crisis. Over 60 per cent of children are currently living in food poverty, and the health system is on the verge of collapse after years of being overstretched.
The ongoing conflict in Lebanon’s neighbouring countries has brought an influx of Syrian and Palestinian refugees seeking safety within its borders. And as tensions continue to rise in south Lebanon, children and their families are facing an uncertain future.
The cost of the escalating crisis on Lebanon’s children
Since the conflict escalated between the State of Palestine and Israel in October 2023, Lebanon has been enduring a rise in cross-border conflict, displacing tens of thousands of children and their families.
Displaced children in Lebanon longing for home
Latest statements from UNICEF
At least 59 children reportedly killed or injured in Lebanon in the past week despite ceasefire
Children in Lebanon continue to be at the sharp end of ongoing violence, displacement and exposure to traumatic events. In the past seven days alone, despite an agreed ceasefire on 17 April 2026, at least 59 children have reportedly been killed or injured. This includes two children from the same family who were killed this morning, along with their mother, in a strike that hit their car. These are a stark reminder of the grave violations and ongoing risks children continue to face.
Where was the conflict in Lebanon?
Since the conflict between Israel and State of Palestine escalated in October 2023, there was an increase in hostilities at the Lebanon and Israel border, resulting in airstrikes in Beirut.
The cost of the crisis on children
2.9 m
People in need of humanitarian support in Lebanon.
1 m
Over 1 million children in need of education support.
How is UNICEF helping?
UNICEF continues to support children and their families in Lebanon with safe drinking water, lifesaving nutrition and healthcare, and access to education while working to keep children safe from harm. We will continue to respond to the cross-border conflict as tensions in the Middle East evolves.
4.5 m
In 2025, UNICEF reached over 4.5 million people with safe drinking water.
1.9 m
In 2025, over 1.9 million people accessed primary health care in UNICEF-supported facilities.
Children of Lebanon Crisis
Children are living through an unfolding crisis as the escalation in the conflict with Israel intensifies. When you donate to support our emergency work, you can help us be there for every child before, during and after an emergency, no matter what.
