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Israel/Lebanon: Update to Response ZZZ37976.E of 15 February 2002 on Israeli policy of not accepting applications for refugee status from citizens of Lebanon since the Israeli withdrawal from South Lebanon in 2000

In 4 April 2002 correspondence with the Research Directorate, a representative of the Branch Office for Canada of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees states that:

Israel did not have a national refugee status determination system until late January 2002 when the Israeli National Status Granting Body formally assumed its functions. As a consequence, Israel could not have "refused to process applications" prior to this date. Refugee status determination had until then been conducted by UNHCR, through the office of the (then) UNHCR honorary correspondent in Israel.

Following the Israel withdrawal from South Lebanon in May 2000, approximately 6000 Lebanese citizens crossed into Israel. Of this number it is estimated that approximately 4000 were (former) members of the South Lebanese Army (SLA), while the roughly 2000 remaining were civilians who lived within the security zone. Since then, approximately 3000 of these Lebanese citizens have returned to Lebanon, though no exact numbers are known.

Israel offered a one-year residency permit to all Lebanese citizens who had fled. Shelter in reception centres or houses was provided and they were given access to health insurance system. Children were enrolled in schools or educational facilities were established. In May 2000, Israel pledged to offer legal and material assistance to former SLA members, including the grant of residency and eventually, citizenship, for those who wish to remain. There was no refugee status determination involved, however.

Response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the Research Directorate within time constraints. This Response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum.

Reference

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Branch Office for Canada. 4 April 2002. Correspondence from representative.