"We want official clarification from the government on some points, specifically what this means for those seeking extreme humanitarian entry," Ron Redmond told Al Jazeera.
The new restrictions aimed at tightening the influx of Syrian refugees entering Lebanon took effect on Monday. The restrictions include requiring Syrians to acquire a visa to enter Lebanon. Prior to this, movement across the Syrian-Lebanese border was largely unrestricted.
The restrictions have also raised concern about unregistered Syrian refugees already in Lebanon, according to the news outlet.
According to the United Nations, of more than 3.2 million Syrian refugees registered, Lebanon hosts over 1.1 million, or about a quarter of the host country’s population. The influx of refugees has caused a deep strain on the Lebanese economy, spilling over into neighboring countries including Jordan, Turkey, Iraq and Egypt.
In wake of the 2011 Arab Spring peaceful protests in Syria escalated into all-out fighting between government forces, rebels and jihadists, including Islamic State militant group, which began fighting the Syrian government in 2012, has captured vast territories in the country and is known for its brutal tactics. The UN estimates about 6.5 million Syrians have been internally displaced by the conflict, while an estimated 9 million have fled their homes since the civil war broke out.
