Lebanon: Flash Update #27 - Escalation of hostilities in Lebanon (as of 18 May 2026)

Country: Lebanon Source: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Please refer to the attached file. HIGHLIGHTS Hostilities intensified despite the announced ceasefire extension , with continued strikes and new displacement orders affecting at least 27 localities, driving further population movements and increasing humanitarian needs. Since 2 March, 2,988 people were killed and 9,210 were injured. Casualties include 209 children, 279 women killed and 838 children and 1,124 women injured. Continued attack on healthcare professionals resulted in two deaths and ten injuries. Displacement and pressure on collective shelters are increasing , with over 130,000 IDPs hosted across 634 sites, while funding shortfalls threaten the continuity of critical services, including WASH. Flash Appeal stands at 51 per cent funded, putting critical services at risk of interruption. SITUATION OVERVIEW The humanitarian situation in Lebanon deteriorated between 15 and 18 May, marked by a sharp escalation of hostilities despite diplomatic developments. On 15 May, a new 45‑day ceasefire extension was announced following talks between Israel and Lebanon facilitated by the United States, with plans to reconvene on 2 June 2026. However, hostilities on the ground persisted, with continued strikes reported across southern Lebanon governorates . This reporting period was characterized by some of the most intense attacks since the initial ceasefire was announced in mid‑April, contributing to a worsening security environment and deepening humanitarian needs across sectors. Since the onset of hostilities on 2 March, at least 2,988 people have been killed and 9,210 injured . The intensity of attacks during the reporting period further compounded civilian suffering and infrastructure damage. A...

Original source: Relief Web