Lebanon Response Sitrep 2026 #5

Since the escalation of hostilities on 2 March, the situation in Lebanon has entered its fourth week, with no indication of de-escalation and continued spillover from the broader regional conflict. While diplomatic efforts by the Government of Lebanon are ongoing, reports suggest that even in the event of a broader regional agreement, hostilities in Lebanon are likely to persist.

In recent days, hostilities have further expanded in scope and impact. Inaugurally, a missile was intercepted over the Keserwan area, with debris reported across parts of Mount Lebanon, underscoring the spread of the conflict into previously unaffected areas. At the same time, targeted strikes on non-state actors within civilian residential buildings continue, causing civilian casualties and damage to surrounding infrastructure.

Attacks on critical infrastructure have intensified, with at least seven bridges and multiple crossings destroyed across the Litani River, effectively isolating parts of southern Lebanon and cutting off over 150,000 people, severely constraining civilian movement and humanitarian access.

Meanwhile, the humanitarian and economic situation continues to deteriorate. Displacement remains high and shelter capacity overstretched, with many families unable to access formal shelters and resorting to informal or unsafe living arrangements. Rising fuel and commodity prices, driven by disruptions in regional supply routes, are further increasing the cost of living and compounding vulnerabilities among affected populations.

The prolonged escalation is also contributing to growing social tensions and localised instability, as pressure on resources intensifies and political polarisation deepens, raising concerns over potential civil unrest and localised sectarian tensions.