Informal border crossings from Syria into Lebanon persist, with a total of 89,000 arrivals reported in Baalbeck as of February 12, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) announced in a statement on Wednesday. Among them, only 20,000 are Lebanese returnees, the agency said.
While daily crossings at the Masnaa official border point are steady, averaging 1,300 movements per day, security concerns have halted passage through the Qaa official crossing. The Arida border point in North Lebanon remains closed for public works.
UNHCR emphasized its ongoing coordination with Lebanese authorities to enhance aid provision, particularly for displaced families facing housing destruction, movement restrictions and economic hardship. The agency’s latest survey also shows a growing number of Syrian refugees considering a return home, with livelihood opportunities, secure housing and safety among their primary concerns. To support voluntary repatriation, UNHCR has launched an Operational Framework for Voluntary Return.
In January alone, the agency provided emergency cash assistance to 6,240 Syrian refugees and Lebanese to help mitigate eviction risks and homelessness. Additionally, 2,670 displaced Lebanese received legal aid, while outreach volunteers identified and assisted vulnerable individuals in need of shelter, healthcare and basic necessities.
Community centers and social development programs continue to offer psychosocial support, awareness sessions and protection services. “UNHCR continues to monitor movements, engage with affected communities, and coordinate with authorities to ensure humanitarian needs are met,” the statement concluded.
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