Caritas in the Middle East: Responding to a Region on Edge

Across the Middle East, humanitarian needs are rapidly evolving as regional tensions escalate. In response, SCIAF is in contact with the Caritas network, where members are prioritising life-saving interventions.

While the intensity of the crisis varies from country to country, the humanitarian impact is being felt across the region.  Some members are preparing contingency measures, while others are delivering immediate relief to the most vulnerable. 

Of all the countries in the region, Lebanon faces the most severe humanitarian consequences.

Since early March, escalating hostilities have displaced an estimated 1.2 million people from southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and Beirut causing fear and hardship. More than 136,000 people are sheltering in overcrowded collective centres, while others remain without stable accommodation. Through Caritas Lebanon, a trusted local partner, SCIAF has been able to reach some of the poorest and most vulnerable people impacted by conflict in their time of great need.   
 
Caritas Lebanon has deployed its emergency response teams to support affected and internally displaced persons, providing essential services including daily hot meals, ready-to-eat food parcels, hygiene and care kits for babies and the elderly, and comprehensive health and medical care. In addition, Caritas Lebanon has provided psychosocial support to help individuals cope with trauma. Its ongoing efforts underscore the organisation’s deep commitment to alleviating suffering and protecting the most vulnerable in times of crisis.  It is through Caritas Lebanon, a trusted local partner, that SCIAF has been able to reach some of the most vulnerable people thanks to the compassion shown by supporters.  

Across the wider region, Caritas partners continue to monitor risks, support vulnerable communities, and adapt their operations as the situation evolves. While each context differs, the shared priority remains clear: protecting lives, supporting the most vulnerable, and maintaining humanitarian presence amid growing uncertainty. 

Help us be there in times of emergency

Please consider a gift so we can be there for the families in great need in Lebanon and around the world caught up in emergencies.  A kind donation today to the Emergency Response Fund enables us to be there for some of the world’s poorest, most vulnerable people - delivering food, water, shelter and emotional support to those caught in crisis.