Assad Promises Support for Those Fleeing Israeli Attacks in Lebanon

According to SAEDNEWS, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has pledged that his newly formed government will focus on helping those from Lebanon who are escaping the violence caused by Israeli attacks.

On Monday, Assad announced the establishment of a new government led by Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali. Speaking to his cabinet on Wednesday, he emphasized the importance of supporting Lebanon during this difficult time, stating that Damascus must assist its neighbors "in all fields and in all sectors, without exception and hesitation."

He directed the ministers to make this humanitarian effort their top priority, urging them to find ways to stand by the Lebanese people from the very start of their work.

As a result of ongoing Israeli shelling, which began on September 23, more than 500 individuals have already crossed the border from Lebanon into Syria seeking safety, according to Syrian security officials. Reports indicate that the violence has tragically claimed the lives of over 600 people in Lebanon, including more than 50 children.

The UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) also reported that many vehicles are stuck in long queues at the Syrian border, with people waiting to cross. "Many are arriving on foot, carrying what little they can," said UNHCR. Large crowds, including women and young children, have been seen waiting outdoors in dropping temperatures, with some showing fresh injuries from recent attacks.

UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi described the situation as "yet another ordeal for families" who had already fled the long-standing civil war in Syria, only to find themselves in a new cycle of violence. He warned that West Asia cannot withstand another displacement crisis and called for action to prevent more people from being forced to leave their homes.

Since the start of the foreign-backed militancy against Assad's government in 2011, millions of Syrians have sought refuge in Lebanon.