Beirut, Lebanon – More than 100,000 people have fled from Lebanon to Syria in an effort to escape ongoing Israeli airstrikes, Filippo Grandi, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, said on Monday.

He noted that the flow of refugees continues, with many still seeking safety. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, along with local authorities, is stationed at four crossing points to support new arrivals, Grandi added.

In a press statement, the High Commissioner warned that Israel’s expanding conflict across multiple fronts, including Palestine, Lebanon, and Yemen, will lead to even greater displacement and civilian suffering. He highlighted that thousands of Lebanese and Syrians living in Lebanon have already fled to Syria, while more than 200,000 people have been displaced within Lebanon itself.

The UN Information Centre, quoting Grandi, confirmed that relief operations, including those by UNHCR, are underway in coordination with both Lebanese and Syrian governments. Grandi added that Israeli airstrikes have destroyed homes and civilian infrastructure in Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of entire families and triggering unprecedented mass displacement.

Grandi also stressed the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring their basic needs are met, whether they choose to flee or remain, stating, “They are not a target.”