The Migration and Refugee Forum in the Arab World condemns the rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East, marked by new waves of forced displacement and the escalation of conflicts that are resulting in unprecedented levels of human suffering. The ongoing wars, political instability, and targeted acts of violence are displacing thousands of civilians, creating an urgent and deepening humanitarian crisis across the region.
We are particularly alarmed by the ongoing genocide in Gaza, where continuous bombardments and systematic attacks have led to immense civilian casualties and widespread destruction. Thousands of families have been displaced, seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters with limited access to basic needs such as food, water, and medical care. The scale of devastation is unimaginable, and the international community must act swiftly to halt this atrocity and provide protection and aid to those in desperate need.
In recent days, the brutal attacks on Lebanon with undiscriminated bombardments have added yet another layer of complexity to an already fragile situation. The renewed violence threatens to displace even more people, destabilizing the country further and exacerbating Lebanon’s own internal socio-political and economic crises. The Lebanese population, along with the significant refugee communities already residing within its borders, face new threats of displacement and instability. This new wave of violence is not only causing immediate harm to civilians but also endangers the broader stability of the region, which is already fragile under the weith of a year of war and international paralisis to end it, with long-term implications for peace and security.
In addition to these acute crises, we cannot overlook the crisis in Sudan and the impact of ongoing colonial policies in other parts of the region, which continue to produce large numbers of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). These protracted conflicts, coupled with economic collapse and environmental challenges, have left millions displaced and without adequate support. The cumulative impact of these crises has overwhelmed local resources and humanitarian efforts, pushing vulnerable populations to the brink of survival.
We urge the international community, humanitarian organizations, and governments to take immediate and coordinated action to address this multifaceted crisis. The following steps are essential:
- Ceasefire and Protection of Civilians: Immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, Lebanon, and other conflict zones, and robust mechanisms to protect civilians, particularly women, children, and vulnerable groups, from further harm and displacement.
- Humanitarian Assistance: Swift and unhindered access for humanitarian aid to all affected areas. International donors must increase support for refugees and IDPs, ensuring that basic needs—such as shelter, food, medical care, and education—are met.
- Diplomatic Engagement and Conflict Resolution: Renewed efforts to find political solutions to the conflicts in the region, including addressing the root causes of violence and displacement, must be prioritized by regional and international actors.
- Support for Host Communities: Countries hosting large numbers of refugees, such as Lebanon and Jordan, must receive greater international assistance to manage the growing pressures on their economies and public services.
- Long-term Solutions: The international community must work towards durable solutions for displaced populations, including safe and voluntary return, local integration, or resettlement in third countries, in accordance with international legal frameworks.
The time to act is now. The human cost of inaction is immeasurable, and the continued displacement of millions of people will only lead to further instability, insecurity, and human tragedy in the Middle East.
We call upon all stakeholders to work together towards peace, justice, and the protection of human rights for all displaced persons across the region.
