Lebanon is currently experiencing its deadliest humanitarian crisis in decades, with over one million people affected by escalating violence and relentless attacks in Beirut's southern suburbs. The Office of the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that an average of 250 people have been killed weekly in November, raising the total death toll to more than 3,700 since hostilities intensified in October of last year.

Tragically, UNICEF has documented the deaths of at least nine children in just two days, bringing the total number of child fatalities to at least 240 since the onset of the conflict. In response to the violence, Lebanese authorities have closed schools in Beirut and surrounding areas, transitioning to remote learning, which further disrupts the education of young people.

Despite the ongoing security concerns, humanitarian organizations are striving to provide critical assistance. As of November 19, UNICEF has successfully conducted 14 humanitarian convoys, reaching approximately 50,000 individuals in hard-to-reach areas. The organization has also assisted displaced families in finding shelter amid a severe urban displacement crisis.

On the health front, the World Health Organization has delivered 48 tons of medical supplies to support Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health, ensuring that 300,000 people with chronic conditions maintain access to essential medications.

In neighboring Syria, the humanitarian situation remains dire as well. Recent attacks in the northwest have resulted in civilian casualties, prompting calls for renewed protection of civilians from the deputy regional humanitarian coordinator. The humanitarian response plan for Syria, which aims to assist 10.8 million people, is severely underfunded, having received only $1.2 billion of the $4 billion required. More than 80 health facilities have suspended operations due to funding shortages, exacerbating the crisis.