Offered psychological support
Lebanese refugee children begin school in Iraq as conflict escalates at home
DIYALA — As the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel intensifies, thousands of displaced Lebanese refugees have fled to Iraq, with the government acting quickly to accommodate them. On Monday, Lebanese children began attending Iraqi schools, marking a new chapter for families seeking refuge.
Among the first to enrol was 11-year-old Rana Rimon Zakia, who joined Safia Elementary School in Jizani al-Joul, Khanaqin District. This effort is part of a broader initiative by Iraq’s Ministry of Education to integrate Lebanese students into its school system. The Directorate of Education in Diyala has directed all schools to welcome refugee students without delay.
In the past 10 days, Iraq has received around 8,000 Lebanese refugees, according to the Iraqi Red Crescent Society, due to the worsening security situation in Lebanon.
Darya Khairullah, head of the Education and Higher Learning Committee in Diyala’s Provincial Council, told 964media, “Under the directive of Iraq’s Minister of Education, Lebanese students are being admitted into Iraqi schools. A specialised program is being prepared to offer psychological support and relieve the trauma these children have experienced.”
The conflict continues to escalate, with Israel increasing strikes on Hezbollah strongholds since Sept. 23, leading to over 1,150 deaths and displacing more than a million people.
Aws Ibrahim Mahdi, a member of the Diyala Provincial Council, announced that 969 apartments near Baqubah have been set aside to house Lebanese refugees. The Ministry of Municipalities is also preparing more locations in Diyala should refugee numbers grow.
Iraq’s government has reiterated its commitment to peaceful solutions and called on the international community, including U.S. President Joe Biden and the European Union, to take immediate action to prevent further escalation. The government has outlined a three-tiered response: political, humanitarian relief, and a media campaign to address the crises in both Lebanon and Gaza.