UNHCR: United Nations Working to Support Syrians Returning from Lebanon

Welat TV – Erbil

Celine Schmitt, spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Syria, said the agency is working closely with the Syrian government at both central and local levels to support Syrians arriving from Lebanon.

According to the Syrian Arab News Agency, Schmitt stated that more than 80,000 Syrians have crossed the border into Syria since March 2.

She explained that many of the arrivals left Lebanon in haste without taking their personal belongings after shelling occurred near their residential areas, forcing them to flee with their families and head to Syria. Most of them, she noted, are currently staying with relatives, adding that no requests for emergency shelter have been recorded so far.

Schmitt also highlighted that UNHCR is coordinating with Syrian authorities, including officials responsible for border crossings with Lebanon at Jdeidet Yabous, Jousieh, and Al-Arida. The agency has reinforced its presence at these crossings to assist authorities as the number of arrivals increases.

She added that UNHCR is working with Syrian institutions to collect data and is also coordinating with the Syrian Civil Defense. Assistance provided at border crossings includes water, blankets, and other relief supplies when needed, as well as transportation for people who do not have a means of travel.

The UNHCR spokesperson further noted that the agency has trained several border personnel on mechanisms for collecting and sharing information as part of ongoing cooperation, while remaining ready to provide additional support if individuals arrive without families or require shelter.

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