The Jesuit Refugee Service has opened its migrant centre to provide shelter for forcibly displaced Lebanese and migrant workers. JRS-MENA
A little girl who evacuated with her family after the Israeli strikes in Lebanon looks out of the window at the Arrupe Migrant Centre, which has opened its doors to evacuees. The centre is run by the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Photo: JRS Lebanon
Canadian Jesuits International (CJI) is accepting donations for its partner, the Jesuit Refugee Service, which is working in Lebanon and neighbouring countries to provide humanitarian aid to people forcibly displaced by the war in the Middle East.
A series of intense military operations, including joint strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran’s strategic targets and leadership, has triggered widespread violence and the forced displacement of people across the region. Iranian missile and drone attacks have also hit several countries. This surge in violence has resulted in significant civilian casualties and mass displacement, with people once again caught in the crossfire of regional hostilities.
As violence continues to escalate across the region, Lebanon is once again severely affected. The Israeli military struck Hezbollah targets in Lebanon after it launched rockets and drones at Haifa, Israel, in retaliation for the killing of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Renewed tensions and armed confrontations are forcing tens of thousands of families to flee, disrupting communities, and putting the most vulnerable at even greater risk. In times of conflict, children, women, and older people are the ones who bear the heaviest cost. In this context, the call for peace and humanitarian assistance is urgent.
Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) staff prepare water and other supplies to be handed out to people in Lebanon who have been forcibly displaced by the war in the Middle East. Photo: JRS-Middle East and North Africa
The Xavier Network, of which CJI is a member, and the JRS are accompanying communities who are directly affected by this violence.It has opened its centres to provide safe spaces, basic assistance and ongoing support for families displaced by the violence.
Our commitment is clear: to stand with those who are forced to flee and to ensure that no one faces this crisis alone.
Peace remains the only viable path forward. Until it is secured, we will continue to accompany those who bear the brunt of its absence.
