As Israeli airstrikes continue to devastate civilian areas, thousands of people are being displaced, with many seeking safety in neighbouring countries. In this context, the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), already facing numerous challenges, has received at least 3,228 refugees from Lebanon, according to France 24.
In parallel, reports from Hawar News Agency, a local northern Syrian media outlet, indicate that the number of returnees and arrivals from Lebanon to the AANES region are significantly higher, with 7,703 passing through two border crossings.
North and East Syria’s Crisis Desk, tasked with managing the influx of returnees from Lebanon, is actively facilitating their reception at key border crossings. The designated entry points are the Tabqa Crossing and the Tayha Crossing, both located in the Manbij Canton.
Meanwhile, the the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported that an estimated 100,000 people—mostly Lebanese and Syrians—have fled Lebanon into Syria since the escalation of hostilities. Over the past 48 hours, Lebanese authorities reported that 27,000 people have been forced to flee their homes, with the numbers expected to rise as the conflict intensifies.
UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, described the crisis as a terrible toll, noting that many families had previously fled the Syrian war and now face another ordeal, this time in the country where they had sought refuge.
However, according to reports, the refugee situation in Syria remains dire, as the country still grapples with the aftermath of the 2023 earthquake and a prolonged conflict that has decimated infrastructure and left millions in need of assistance.
Following the recent Israeli attacks, the Damascus government reported the return of 22,215 Lebanese and over 65,000 Syrian refugees to Syria. However, many remain stranded at the Syria-Lebanon border due to financial constraints imposed by the Syrian government.
Despite efforts to facilitate the return of refugees, the conditions remain harsh. Returnees face severe economic hardship, human rights violations, and a lack of basic services, with the UN cautioning that Syria is still unsafe for large-scale returns. The humanitarian situation in northern and western Syria remains dire, with over 4 million people urgently needing assistance due to ongoing conflict and economic instability.
Last week, the AANES announced its readiness to support returning refugees, reaffirming their right to a safe return.
