IOM: Over 130,000 cross into Syria, 1 million displaced in Lebanon since early March

More than 130,000 people have crossed into Syria, and over 1 million have been displaced inside Lebanon since early March, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said Tuesday, warning of mounting humanitarian needs across the region. The agency said in a statement that the latest movements reflect how quickly conflict can reshape migration patterns, placing additional pressure on already vulnerable communities.

Urgent needs

"The current situation is a stark reminder of how quickly instability can reshape mobility patterns across entire regions," said IOM Director General Amy Pope, stressing that "sustained international support is essential." According to IOM data, most of those crossing into Syria between March 2 and 18 are Syrians, with a smaller number of Lebanese nationals. Many are staying with relatives or in temporary shelters and need cash assistance, food, and housing.

Lebanon displacement

Inside Lebanon, displacement has surged, with over 1 million internally displaced people recorded, including more than 134,000 in collective shelters, the agency said. Many others are living with host families, renting, or sleeping outdoors, increasing pressure on infrastructure and services. Elsewhere, smaller movements have been recorded across the region, including into Iraq and Pakistan, while returns from Iran to Afghanistan are expected to rise.

Third-country nationals

According to the statement, the situation has further prompted movements of third-country nationals across the region, with individuals from multiple countries recorded crossing into Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, often facilitated by their respective governments. "Across the region, mobility patterns suggest that many movements are precautionary and temporary, as people seek safety while monitoring the evolving situation, including in Iran," the IOM said.

Call for de-escalation

The IOM urged restraint and de-escalation, warning that civilians must be protected and humanitarian law respected. The agency's appeal comes as the US-Israeli war with Iran enters its fifth week, with over 1,340 killed in Iran and the conflict expanding to Lebanon where Israeli ground operations have displaced over one million people.