UN: 5,663 Syrian refugees in Lebanon

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) stated in its weekly report that the number of Syrian refugees registered in Lebanon has increased by over 400 persons in the last week alone, marking one of the largest waves since the uprising in Syria began last March.  According to the latest report from the UN body, there are now 5.663 Syrian refugees registered in the north of Lebanon, although the report states that “a number of displaced Syrians had crossed into Lebanon earlier but just this week approached our office.” The report states that the vast majority of refugees “express fear and anxiety about returning and most do not feel that the situation is safe enough for them to do so yet.” The UNHCR is also providing psychological counseling to refugees and it is also assisting people with “specific needs, especially vulnerable children and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence."