The continuous conflicts among opposing groups within the Ain el-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp located in southern Lebanon have resulted in the displacement of approximately 20,000 individuals, including roughly 12,000 children. According to what Save the Children revealed today, Thursday.
Reuters quoted security sources as saying in the camp, at least 13 individuals, primarily armed individuals, have lost their lives in the camp due to the outbreak of violence between Fatah and Islamist militants since Saturday.
And security sources said: The fragile cease-fire is still in effect after the killing of two gunmen late on Wednesday night.
Escape from the clashes
The Ain al-Hilweh camp in Lebanon is recognized by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) as the biggest among the twelve Palestinian refugee camps situated in the country. Approximately 80,000 out of the total 250,000 Palestinian refugees residing in the country call this place their home.
The Nabaa Association, which focuses on assisting refugees in Lebanon, stated that a portion of the recently displaced individuals have sought shelter in schools located beyond the camp.
"We are seeing high numbers of children and families who are experiencing distress and uncertainty given the continued clashes. Many families fled the violence with no time to pack or prepare for displacement," said Save the Children area director George Jreij.
Expanding conflicts scare
He mentioned that a number of kids have been taken away from their parents and caretakers, highlighting that certain families are hesitant to step out of their houses even though they don't have much food and water available.
There are concerns that the violence might extend to Sidon, the nearby coastal city, as the clashes persist for several days.
Earlier this week, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah called for a full-scale cease-fire in the southern part of the country. On Thursday, he said his group did not participate in the clashes.
Eyewitnesses said the camp saw one of the most intense clashes in years last night, with a mix of M-15s, RPGs, mortars, and rocket fire.
