The following statement was issued by ACA CEO Hassan Moussa in response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Lebanon.

I am deeply concerned for Lebanon and its people amid the escalating Israeli attacks which have created a devastating humanitarian crisis, with over 3,000 civilians killed since the ceasefire was declared in mid-April and at least 1.5 million internally displaced, most for the third time.
Recent escalations and cross-border hostilities have contributed to a rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation. Reports from international organisations and humanitarian agencies indicate significant civilian casualties, widespread displacement, and severe damage to infrastructure. Hundreds of thousands of people have been forced from their homes in recent months, many for the second or third time, with limited access to shelter, healthcare, and basic necessities.
Communities in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley have been particularly affected, with repeated displacement orders, destruction of residential areas, and growing economic hardship preventing families from relocating to safer areas. Children remain among the most vulnerable, bearing the brunt of disrupted education, trauma, and injury.
What we are witnessing extends beyond immediate military objectives. The scale of destruction to civilian infrastructure—including homes, medical facilities, and essential services—has raised serious humanitarian and legal concerns. Attacks impacting healthcare personnel and facilities (including hospitals), in particular, are deeply alarming and risk further compounding an already fragile system.
The Lebanese Australian community is watching these developments with profound distress. Many here have close family ties to the affected regions and are directly impacted by the unfolding crisis. In this context, the perceived lack of strong and consistent international response, including from Australia, is a source of deep concern.
We ask that the Australian government without delay to:
1.    Condemn Israel's disproportionate attacks on civilian infrastructure
2.    Call for an independent investigation into potential war crimes
3.    Urge immediate cessation of hostilities and respect for Lebanon's sovereignty
4.    Provide humanitarian assistance for the growing number of displaced civilians
Lebanon, like all nations facing conflict, deserves sustained international attention, accountability, and humanitarian support. The urgency of the situation calls for principled and proactive engagement to help prevent further loss of life and suffering.

Hassan Moussa
CEO
Arab Council Australia Ltd