Amman, March 4 (Petra) – The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said on Wednesday that escalating Israeli military operations in South Lebanon in the last 24 hours prompted the displacement of about 60,000 Lebanese from their homes, including 18,000 children.

In a statement on its official website, the organization said seven children were killed and dozens injured, adding that the rise in child casualties coincides with intensified airstrikes targeting many areas, leading to widespread displacement and exacerbating the already fragile humanitarian situation.

The organization said more than 12,000 families have sought refuge in 300 shelters across Lebanon, noting that many of these reached capacity.

UNICEF said its response plan needs $48 million in funding to reach one million people in need, but only 16 percent of the amount was secured so far.

//Petra//SS