Key facts
- Thousands of children in southern Lebanon are displaced due to the ongoing conflict with Israel.
- Many displaced families are currently residing in public schools, which are preparing to reopen for the new academic year.
- Families are concerned about housing and the financial burden of school supplies.
- A significant number of schools have been damaged or destroyed, impacting at least 100,000 children.
- Organizations like Save the Children emphasize that a political solution and ceasefire are necessary to resolve the crisis.
Thousands of children in southern Lebanon remain displaced from their homes six months into the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, with many living in schools that are now preparing to reopen for the new academic year on September 15. Families face uncertainty about their housing and the ability to afford school supplies like books and uniforms.
At the Tyre school in southern Lebanon, children's laughter can be heard, but many are living in the schoolyard, which has been converted into a shelter for around 200 families. Some children have lost up to two years of schooling due to repeated conflicts. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reports over 4,300 deaths and 12,000 injuries in Lebanon since March 2, including hundreds of children. While most of the one million displaced people have returned home, over 340,000 remain displaced due to destruction or proximity to Israeli military occupation.
Lebanon's Education Ministry stated that nearly half of the nearly 80 public schools still used as shelters will reopen, with some continuing to serve dual purposes. However, about 50 schools have been destroyed or severely damaged, potentially jeopardizing the school year for at least 100,000 children. The Israeli military has been accused of destroying a public school and kindergarten. Lebanon's Education Minister Rima Karami is working to ensure displaced students can continue their education. Save the Children highlighted that a durable ceasefire is the only solution to the crisis, emphasizing the need for a political resolution.