Lebanon Emerges as the Most Affected Country in the Iran War

Reports 06:41 PM - 2026-04-05

Bombardment in Lebanon.

Following the outbreak of war between the United States and Israel against Iran on 28 February 2026, more than ten countries in the Middle East were affected by the conflict. However, Lebanon has been the most severely impacted country after Iran, due to the role of Hezbollah. 

Israel demanded the evacuation of 14% of Lebanese territory, while more than 1,300 people have been killed and approximately 5,000 others wounded.

Hezbollah attacks, Israel responds with heavy strikes

On 2 March 2026, two days after the breakout of the war, six rockets were launched from Lebanon towards Israel. Hezbollah claimed responsibility, stating the attacks were in retaliation for the killing of Khamenei.

Israel responded immediately with heavy bombardment of the Dahieh area in Beirut and demanded the evacuation of large areas across Lebanon, which, according to UN reports, represents around 14% of the country’s total territory. This triggered a new wave of displacement.

Rising death toll

The Lebanese Ministry of Health’s emergency centre continues to publish daily casualty figures. According to the latest statistics, 1,368 people have been killed and 4,138 injured. Among the dead are 125 children, while 433 children have been injured. In addition, 91 women have been killed and 488 injured, alongside the deaths of 53 healthcare workers.

In contrast, Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee stated that 800 Hezbollah fighters have been killed in Israeli strikes.

Over one million displaced

According to the Lebanese Ministry of Social Affairs, the number of displaced people has reached 1,136,000, distributed across 669 shelters and camps.

Why is Lebanon the most affected?

While several Arab countries have been affected by the broader Iran war, Lebanon has experienced the most direct impact due to ongoing Israeli strikes. Israel says its operations aim to protect its northern regions from Hezbollah attacks, while also seeking to establish a demilitarised buffer zone.

In this context, the Israeli Defence Minister stated on 31 March 2026 that Israel aims to establish a buffer zone extending up to the Litani River.

Lebanese government response

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam strongly condemned the rocket attacks, stating that whoever was responsible had endangered Lebanon’s security and provided Israel with a pretext for further strikes on Lebanese territory.

Conclusion

According to the available data, Lebanon has emerged as the most affected country in the conflict, due to heavy human losses, mass displacement, extensive evacuation orders, and a rapidly deteriorating security situation.



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