Lebanese families resettled in Diyala's Khanaqin amid rising Israel-Hezbollah tensions
The wave of Lebanese refugees follows intensified Israeli military operations in Lebanon, which have escalated since Sept. 25.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Ten Lebanese families, consisting of 50 individuals, have been resettled in Khanaqin, Diyala, according to a Kurdistan24 reporter on Thursday. This relocation is part of a broader effort to accommodate families fleeing the escalating military conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. In recent days, dozens of other families have also found refuge in the towns of Mandali and Baqubah within Diyala province.
The wave of Lebanese refugees follows intensified Israeli military operations in Lebanon, which have escalated since Sept. 25. This uptick in violence is closely linked to the broader regional conflict, particularly after a major assault by Hamas on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. In response to this attack, Israel launched a series of air and ground strikes on Gaza. Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed militia operating out of Lebanon, retaliated by firing rockets into Israeli-occupied Shebaa Farms, leading to further clashes.
In a particularly significant development on Sept. 27, an Israeli airstrike targeted a Hezbollah leadership meeting in Lebanon, resulting in the death of several high-ranking Hezbollah commanders, including the group's leader, Hassan Nasrallah. The assassination has further fueled tensions in the region.
The Iraqi government, responding to the humanitarian fallout from the conflict, has offered support to the Lebanese people. At the request of Iraq’s Supreme Shiite leader, Ali al-Sistani, Baghdad has implemented several measures to assist Lebanon and its displaced population.
As tensions between Israel and Hezbollah persist, the resettlement of Lebanese families in Iraq is expected to continue, with local authorities preparing for additional arrivals.