In a recent government meeting, discussions highlighted the ongoing plight of Indigenous peoples facing displacement due to conflict and violence, with a particular focus on the current situation in Gaza and Lebanon.
It was noted that approximately 70% of the population in Gaza has been historically displaced from either Gaza or Israel, with around 2 million individuals currently displaced internally within Gaza for a second time. This situation underscores the long-standing impact of conflict on Indigenous communities in the region.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, where an estimated 1.5 million people have been displaced in the past week alone. Of these, 400,000 have sought refuge in Syria. Importantly, the meeting emphasized that many of those displaced in Lebanon are Indigenous Lebanese, who are not involved in the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah and are instead victims of the violence.
These discussions reflect a broader concern for the rights and welfare of Indigenous populations affected by geopolitical strife, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and support for those displaced by war.