On Monday, September 23rd, Lebanon experienced an unexpected and severe escalation in violence. Over 300 airstrikes struck various parts of the country within hours, resulting in the deaths of at least 558 people, including 50 children and 84 women, and leaving 1,645 others injured. In a tragic scene, entire families died together in their homes as residential buildings were completely destroyed.
The scale of destruction displaced thousands of people, many of whom fled to schools, churches, and mosques for shelter. This single day marks the deadliest for Lebanon since the 2006 war, with total deaths reached one-third the fatalities recorded during that 34-day conflict.
Airstrikes extended across South Lebanon, the Bekaa region, and even to areas in North Lebanon and in the mountains previously considered safe. A tragic traffic jam followed on the streets, with families trying to escape to safer regions being trapped in their vehicles for over 12 hours. The situation remains dire, as roads to Beirut and the north continue to experience heavy traffic, and families struggle to find safe places to go.
National Director Ghada Hachem reports: “Many of our Family Strengthening Program (FSP) families and staff have been affected by the bombings. Staff members living in the southern suburb of Beirut have been displaced due to the unsafe conditions, as well as 19 FSP families in the South and the Bekaa.
While all families in the Bekaa region remain physically unharmed, they are still facing risks, as airstrikes targeted their villages. Our social workers are following up with them to ensure their needs.” She adds: “Some staff members have had family members injured or faced dangerous evacuation processes, while others have welcomed their displaced relatives into their homes.”
We are relieved to confirm that all children and staff in both Bhersaf and Kfarhay Villages are physically unharmed. Families of displaced staff are also receiving shelter in our village in Kfarhay, where we are providing emotional support and food supplies. “Even though we are all relatively safe, nobody is feeling okay. No place in Lebanon feels secure anymore; people and children are living with the constant fear of bombs and airstrikes,” explains Mrs. Hachem.
She also has expressed deep concern over the future of this academic year for Lebanon’s children, especially as schools open their doors to shelter displaced families. This raises serious questions about whether the school year can proceed as planned. “We are truly concerned for the safety, education, and overall well-being of our children, and all children of Lebanon,” she stated. “Their childhood is at risk, and we will do everything in our power to keep them safe and supported during this challenging time.”
She continues: “In light of the continued escalation, we have decided that the displaced children and staff from Ksarnaba facility will remain in Kfarhay, as the region of Ksarnaba itself was hit by airstrikes. The national office has been closed, and staff are working remotely to prioritize their safety and mental health. We are maintaining constant contact with all colleagues, staff, and families to ensure their wellbeing and provide any support during this crisis. We hope this situation resolves soon and peace is restored in Lebanon. Our thoughts are with the children and families, for their safety and for the future of our country.”
