International

‘Women and girls cannot wait’: Lebanon’s crisis is putting lives at risk

James Martinez June 7, 2026

Table of Contents

‘Women and girls cannot wait’: Lebanon’s crisis is putting lives at risk

Women and girls cannot wait — the crisis gripping Lebanon has intensified, forcing urgent action to safeguard their lives. As the conflict continues, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has sounded the alarm, emphasizing that the situation is worsening for women and girls, particularly in areas affected by violence and displacement. The agency warns that without immediate intervention, the lives of vulnerable populations — including pregnant women, adolescent girls, and those with disabilities — are in jeopardy. The ongoing violence has disrupted essential services, and the displacement of thousands has created a critical need for emergency support.

Escalating Threats to Maternal Health

With violence intensifying in southern Lebanon, the risk to maternal health has surged. Airstrikes have targeted critical infrastructure, including a primary healthcare center supported by UNFPA, leaving women and girls without access to vital reproductive services. This facility, once a hub for prenatal care and emergency childbirth, now lies in ruins, compounding the challenges faced by expectant mothers. The damage has also affected a public hospital specializing in maternal services, further limiting options for safe deliveries. According to UNFPA, over 1,500 women remain in isolated conditions, with more than 13,500 pregnant women displaced, and an estimated 1,500 expected to give birth within the next month. These figures underscore the urgency of the situation, as the phrase ‘women and girls cannot wait’ becomes increasingly relevant in the face of escalating threats.

Displacement and the Loss of Safe Spaces

The displacement of women and girls has created a precarious environment where access to safe spaces is limited. As families flee their homes, they are often forced into overcrowded shelters or makeshift accommodations, which lack the privacy and resources needed for dignified care. UNFPA reports that these conditions have not only increased the risk of gender-based violence but also made it harder for women to receive timely medical attention. The agency highlights that the destruction of healthcare facilities has disproportionately impacted women and girls, who already face unique challenges in accessing services. The phrase ‘women and girls cannot wait’ echoes through the devastation, as their need for immediate support grows with each passing day.