People gathered at the Qaa crossing between Lebanon and Syria, which opened on Dec. 1, 2024. (Credit: Photo provided by our correspondent in the Bekaa, Sarah Abdallah)
Against a backdrop of escalating armed conflict between Hezbollah and Israel over the past two months, after a year of cross-border exchanges, more than 540,000 people have fled Lebanon for Syria, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported on November 19, 2024. Of these, 63% were Syrians and 37% Lebanese. In addition, 886,000 Lebanese and Syrians have been displaced within Lebanon, according to figures from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UNHCR.
The Directorate General of General Security (DGSG) announced Monday "changes to the conditions for Syrian nationals entering Lebanon."
People wishing to enter Lebanon are now categorized based on their purpose of travel, with specific documentation and procedures required. Categories include individuals with valid residence permits, business visitors, students, and those seeking medical treatment. Other groups include religious figures and U.N. personnel, among others.
Details of the new entry requirements have been published on the DGSG’s Facebook page.
The announcement comes amid escalating attrition war between Hezbollah and Israel over the past two months, following a year of intermittent cross-border clashes. A cease-fire between the two was reached on Nov. 27.
According to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), more than 540,000 people have fled Lebanon for Syria as of Nov. 19, 2024. Of those, 63% were Syrians, and 37% were Lebanese. Additionally, 886,000 Lebanese and Syrians have been internally displaced within Lebanon, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UNHCR.