At school, home or on social media, you may have heard people talking about the fighting between Lebanon and Israel and have wondered, what is happening?
The situation between Lebanon and Israel is very complicated. The fighting between the two countries has been going on for several decades. A lot of devastation and heartbreak has been caused on both sides, especially during the Lebanon War in 1982 and the month-long war in 2006.
Since October 2023, the conflict between Israel and a group called Hamas in the Gaza Strip escalated. This has also caused tension between Israel and another group called Hezbollah in Lebanon, which is located north of Israel.
So, who is Hezbollah? They are a group from Lebanon that started in the 1980s because they didn’t like Israel’s influence in the country. Hezbollah has been involved in conflicts with Israel ever since, but they have also been part of everyday life in Lebanon. People have different opinions about Hezbollah, both in Lebanon and around the world.
Hezbollah opposes Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank. Since October 2023, Israel and Hezbollah have launched repeated strikes against each other, but both sides have said that they don’t want a war to happen between them.
Israel and Lebanon are in the Middle East, neighbouring Syria, Jordan and Egypt
Why are Lebanon and Israel fighting?
Israel and Lebanon have been in conflict for many years because of disagreements over land and politics. The fighting often involves groups in Lebanon, like Hezbollah, who are against Israel actions in the region. These conflicts have led to ongoing tensions, just like we are seeing now, making it difficult for both countries to find peace.
How are people staying safe during the fighting?
People in Lebanon and Israel, especially those living close to the border, are worried about their safety and the impact of the fighting on their daily lives. Families on both sides have fled their homes, seeking safety in temporary shelters.
The rising tensions have added to the challenges families in Lebanon were already facing, such as high unemployment, an education crisis, and political difficulties.
What is happening between Gaza and Israel?
The fighting between Israel and the Palestinian people who live in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank is a long and complex struggle that escalated dramatically in October 2023. Since then, there has been a lot of violence where both sides, especially children, have experienced extreme pain and loss. The deep-seated anger, fear and a lack of trust make it hard for both sides to find a way to peace.
What is the world doing to help people in the conflict?
People from all around the world, including leaders of other countries, are trying to help find a way to stop the fighting and make peace, but it’s very hard because of the long history of fighting and all the hurt that has been caused.
Despite the challenging security situation, UNICEF and our partners are on the ground in Lebanon providing lifesaving support to children and their families, including medical and water supplies.
5 things you need to know about the unfolding crisis in Lebanon.
Fact 1
Lebanon experienced a prolonged civil war from 1975 to 1990, from which the country is still recovering.
Fact 2
There are 3.9 million people in need of humanitarian support in Lebanon.
Fact 3
Over 20,000 children have had their education disrupted.
Fact 4
A ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon began on 27 November 2024, this has ended the current violence between the two countries.
Fact 5
UNICEF has been in Lebanon since 1948, providing lifesaving help to children and families in need.
What can you do to help?
Gather your family, friends and school and fundraise for the children of Gaza.
How to deal with upsetting news
When natural disaster strikes or conflict breaks out, it is ok to feel scared, worried or sad. Adults can feel this way too. When you are feeling this way, it is important to remember:
It’s in the news because it doesn’t happen often.
- When bad things happen, it is also a time when people come together to help each other.
- If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it is ok to switch off and stop reading.
- Share how you feel and ask your parents and teachers questions.
When it all feels too much, it's ok to switch off