Statement on the death of 15 Syrians during an overnight storm while they were attempting to enter Lebanese territory

UNHCR is distraught by the death of 15 Syrians – including children, women and men – near the Masnaa border in eastern Lebanon during a storm Thursday night (18 to 19 January) while they were attempting to enter Lebanese territory by taking a smuggling route.

The victims were trying to cross an arduous and rugged passage in freezing temperatures. Others in the group, including a pregnant woman, were discovered in time and assisted by nearby residents and the Lebanese Armed Forces and Civil Defence to reach hospitals before they froze to death.

These tragic deaths illustrate the desperation of those trying to reach safety in Lebanon, and remind us that the situation inside Syria remains very difficult and that people continue to take huge risks to cross to safety.

UNHCR presents its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. UNHCR globally continues to call on states to enable safe passage and allow entry to persons in need of protection.

Media contacts:

• In Beirut, Scott CRAIG, [email protected], +961 71 910 332
• In Beirut, Lisa ABOU KHALED, [email protected], +961 71 880 070
• In Amman, Rula AMIN, [email protected], +962 790 04 58 49
• In Geneva, Andrej MAHECIC, [email protected], +41 79 642 9709