Despite Lebanon Ceasefire, War Child Warns Trauma Remains and Gaza Cannot Be Forgotten

The relief a ceasefire brings cannot be overstated for people in Lebanon – particularly children – living under relentless bombardment. Communities in Lebanon have endured escalating conflict since early October 2023. More than 3,800 people have been killed, including at least 230 children. This agreement, including to temporarily cease hostilities and withdraw from frontline positions, must be fully implemented. This will allow humanitarian needs including medical care, food, and shelter, can be addressed and families can begin to recover in safer conditions.

Because while this ceasefire is a critical first step, much work remains. More than 1.3 million people have been affected by this conflict; children have experienced daily violence, causing severe fear and trauma.

“The moment the fighting stops, people must be able begin the journey to recover. That means being able to safely return to their homes – or whatever remains – and addressing their trauma. War Child in Lebanon is already addressing children's protection needs and their mental health and psychosocial wellbeing. But there remains a long road ahead that requires resources. Those with power and influence must be ready to support a holistic recovery,” says Nisrine Yassine, War Child Country Director in Lebanon.

It is now paramount that parties to the conflict and states with influence ensure displaced people’s safe and dignified return, and that mental health and psychosocial support is readily available. The onus lies on the international community to ensure that parties to the conflict cease fighting, including addressing the profound mental trauma endured by the population.

And though there is some hope for people in Lebanon, the catastrophic war in Gaza continues without relief. More than 43,000 people have already been killed, and millions of people forcibly displaced. A comprehensive and lasting ceasefire across the entire region, not just limited halts in violence, is overdue.

“While this ceasefire is a crucial step towards relief, it is merely the beginning. We are all too aware that for people in Gaza, the suffering continues at a deadly pace. The international community must ensure that this important step leads to lasting peace, accountability and justice that ensures children the safety and childhoods they deserve”, says Rob Williams, War Child Alliance CEO.

In Gaza and in Lebanon, international humanitarian law has been flagrantly violated. The international community must demand that all parties to the conflict and perpetrators are held accountable for violations.

War Child remains committed to working directly with people affected by these conflicts and our programming will adapt as the conflict dynamics evolve. Alongside our local NGO partners, we will continue to support people in Lebanon begin to look toward the future. It is our firm belief that all children – including in Lebanon and Gaza – deserve to live in a world where they can thrive beyond the shadow of war.

For interviews or more information:
Jessica Timings, Media Manager, War Child Alliance Foundation
jessica.timings@warchild.net; +31642661929