Lebanon continues to grapple with a complex humanitarian situation marked by ongoing conflict, displacement, and food insecurity. A year following a November 2024 ceasefire, tensions persist between Lebanon and Israel, with Israeli strikes resulting in at least 335 deaths and 973 injuries since the truce. Israel currently maintains control over five border positions.
Return and Displacement
The political transition in Syria in December 2024 has prompted a significant, though uneven, movement of people. By the end of November 2025, approximately 438,000 Syrians had returned to Syria from Lebanon. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) launched a Self-Organised Voluntary Repatriation programme in July 2025, with 119,000 individuals registering interest and 45,200 receiving cash grants to aid their return.
However, this return flow is occurring alongside a new wave of displacement *from* Syria. Since December 2024, more than 112,100 Syrians have sought refuge in Lebanon, including an increase of around 5,600 in November alone. This recent influx was largely attributed to the identification of 4,200 individuals from regions beyond the north and east of Syria, with additional arrivals reported in Akkar and the North governorates.
Worsening Food Security
Lebanon’s food security situation remains precarious. Conflict, inflation, economic stagnation, and funding shortfalls continue to undermine access to adequate food. The sixth IPC Acute Food Insecurity Analysis projects that 1.24 million people – 23 percent of Lebanon’s population – will experience acute food insecurity between July and October 2025.
As of November 2025, 2.7 million people in Lebanon are estimated to be in need of food assistance. The World Food Programme (WFP) has provided assistance to 645,400 people, distributing 1,126 metric tons of food and providing USD 12 million in cash-based transfers.
Looking Ahead
The situation in Lebanon could see further strain if tensions between Lebanon and Israel escalate. Continued instability in Syria may also lead to additional displacement into Lebanon, potentially exacerbating the existing humanitarian challenges. Food insecurity is likely to worsen if current economic trends and funding gaps persist. A possible next step for international organizations could involve scaling up assistance programs to address the growing needs of vulnerable populations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Syrians have returned to Syria from Lebanon since December 2024?
Around 438,000 Syrians have returned from Lebanon to Syria by the end of November 2025.
How many people in Lebanon are facing acute food insecurity?
Approximately 1.24 million people, representing 23 percent of the population, are estimated to face acute food insecurity between July and October 2025.
What assistance has the WFP provided in Lebanon as of November 2025?
The WFP has provided assistance to 645,400 people, distributed 1,126 metric tons of food, and made USD 12 million in cash-based transfers.
What impact will continued regional instability have on Lebanon’s ability to support its population and incoming refugees?
