UN Reports a Surge in Returns of Displaced Lebanese Amid Safety Concerns
Synopsis
In a significant development following the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, thousands of displaced individuals are returning home, despite ongoing safety concerns due to unexploded ordnance. The UN emphasizes the urgent need for caution as families navigate through damaged infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
**Ceasefire** between Israel and Lebanon facilitates return of displaced individuals. **1.2 million** people were displaced; thousands are returning home. **Unexploded ordnance** presents ongoing safety risks in returning areas.
Temporary infrastructure fixes are being implemented to aid returns.
UN humanitarian efforts continue in coordination with local authorities.
United Nations, April 18 (NationPress) In the aftermath of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, a significant number of the 1.2 million individuals displaced from southern Lebanon are making their way back home, despite warnings about unexploded ordnance, according to humanitarian officials from the UN.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported on Friday that its partners noted families beginning to return to the southern suburbs of Beirut and other areas in southern Lebanon, such as parts of Nabatieh and Tyre.
However, OCHA cautioned that safety risks remain prevalent, particularly due to unexploded ordnance scattered across many residential neighborhoods in the southern and Nabatieh governorates.
“Reports from partners and local authorities indicate that thousands of individuals were seen heading south early this morning, leading to heavy traffic on major roads, especially near the villages of Qasmiyeh and Zefta, despite the extensive damage to bridges and infrastructure,” OCHA stated.
The organization announced that temporary repairs are being implemented at river crossings in the southern governorate and along the coastal route of Qasmiyeh to support these returns, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
As of Friday evening local time, the number of people residing in collective shelters had decreased to 113,000, down from 141,000 the previous day.
“Our partners continue to assist in the humanitarian efforts, working closely with local authorities,” the office added.
The 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon was enacted at midnight from Thursday to Friday local time.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his approval of the ceasefire announcement, according to his chief spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.
“He reaffirms the United Nations' commitment to all endeavors aimed at halting hostilities and alleviating the hardships faced by communities on both sides of the Blue Line,” Dujarric noted. “The secretary-general hopes this ceasefire will serve as a foundation for negotiations... leading to a long-lasting resolution of the conflict.”
The UN peacekeeping mission monitoring the Blue Line between northern Israel and southern Lebanon reported that peacekeepers had not observed any projectiles fired into Israel or any Israeli airstrikes within their operational area since the ceasefire took effect.
Point of View
The return of displaced individuals in Lebanon underscores a significant yet precarious step towards recovery. While the ceasefire is a hopeful development, the ongoing safety threats highlight the need for continued humanitarian support and attention to the region’s stability.
NationPress
1 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the return of displaced Lebanese people?
The return was initiated following a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, which has allowed many displaced individuals to consider returning home.
What safety concerns exist for returning families?
Returning families face dangers from unexploded ordnance in various residential areas, which pose significant risks to their safety.
How many people are currently in collective shelters?
As of Friday evening, the number of individuals in collective shelters has decreased to 113,000, down from 141,000.
What actions are being taken to support the return of displaced individuals?
Temporary fixes have been made at river crossings and along coastal routes to facilitate the safe return of displaced families.
What role does the UN play in this situation?
The UN, through its Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, is coordinating humanitarian responses and working closely with local authorities to ensure safety and support for returning families.
