Amidst the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, displaced people in Lebanon are facing hardships in securing temporary housing due to high upfront costs and exploitation by landlords. Ahmad Mansour, an 80-year-old displaced man, is living in overcrowded conditions with five other families after fleeing Israeli bombardment. Many families find themselves unable to afford alternative housing due to exorbitant rental prices and fear of becoming homeless.
The Lebanese Association of Real Estate Agents acknowledges the exploitation of people fleeing conflict for financial gain by property owners. Lebanese law allows landlords to set prices as they see fit, leading to demands for advance payments or high monthly rents. With housing prices increasing, displaced individuals are forced to seek refuge in overcrowded shelters, with over 53,000 people currently displaced.
Despite these challenges, humanitarian initiatives are underway, with schools, universities, churches, and mosques opening their doors to those in need. Lebanese citizens are collecting donations and distributing essential supplies to shelters, demonstrating national solidarity in the face of conflict.
As the war continues and Israeli airstrikes intensify, the death toll rises, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The influx of displaced people, coupled with exploitation by landlords, highlights the urgent need for support and assistance for those affected by the conflict in Lebanon.
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