The war between Israel and Gaza has had consequences not properly addressed so far. Despite Lebanon being bombed by Israel claiming the goal is to neutralize Hezbollah and its personnel, the most adversely affected parties are common citizens. During the last week, more than 600 people were killed in the attacks. Lebanese are trying to leave the country to have better chances at survival. The neighboring countries, such as Syria, are their destination. The precise number of individuals displaced is difficult to ascertain, but estimates from UN officials suggest that the figure may be in the thousands. The conflict has effectively reversed the traditional migratory patterns of refugees. In fact, previously, it was Syrians who were crossing the border into Lebanon; now, the situation has reversed.
However, the effects are not merely physical, but also psychological. Ever Since Haniyeh's killing in Iran on July 31, the conditions in which refugees live have worsened, partly also as a result of last year's catastrophic earthquake near Hama, north of Damascus.
This is coupled with the rising inflation and the considerable number of individuals living in poverty. In an interview with The New Humanitarian, a Syrian woman revealed that after seeking dental care for grinding teeth, the dentist informed her that many of his patients have presented with similar symptoms, saying that the prevailing tensions as a contributing factor. In February, local news reported that Syria has a high prevalence of psychological conditions, particularly anxiety and depression. Additionally, they highlighted the country's inadequate access to medical resources necessary to treat these conditions. Furthermore, there has been an increase in suicide-s rate.
As the aforementioned interview with a Syrian woman revealed, many Syrians feel as though they are regarded as "second-class citizens." It is therefore evident that there is a need for greater international intervention in order to improve the human situation in the region.
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To read more, please visit:
- https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/opinion/first-person/2024/09/23/syria-and-beyond-holding-our-breath-what-might-be-come
- https://apnews.com/article/lebanon-israel-syria-refugees-displaced-8a1fbde03c81fb3672e27d479f5b5a34#
- https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/about-us
- https://alwatan.sy/archives/379330
