Lebanese PM Urges Ceasefire as Over a Million Face Displacement
September 29, 2024
Reading time: 3 minutes
Lebanon’s interim Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, has made a desperate plea for a ceasefire as the country faces its largest displacement crisis in history. In a press conference held today following an emergency government committee meeting, Mikati announced that the ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of over one million people, who are now in urgent need of shelter, healthcare, and other forms of humanitarian aid.
"The Largest Displacement in Lebanon's History"
According to Mikati, "Current estimates indicate that the number of displaced persons as a result of the bombings in the country has reached one million, and they are in dire need of shelter, assistance, and health services. This displacement is the largest in Lebanon's history." The prime minister emphasized the severity of the situation, calling for immediate international assistance to cope with the unfolding humanitarian disaster.
A Call for Ceasefire and Diplomacy
In his appeal, the Lebanese Prime Minister stated, "We will not hesitate to continue our diplomatic efforts, and we have no choice but to pursue diplomacy. We demand a ceasefire on all fronts to bring security and stability to the region." Mikati's plea comes amid growing concerns about further military escalations in Lebanon, with sources indicating that smaller military operations targeting Hezbollah positions along the border may either have commenced or are imminent.
Military Actions on the Horizon?
Two U.S. officials told ABC News that Israel has yet to make a final decision on a full-scale ground operation, but the Israeli army is reportedly prepared for such a scenario. Should it proceed, the ground operation is expected to be limited in scope, according to the sources.
The situation continues to escalate, raising concerns about the humanitarian impact on Lebanon and the region as a whole.