Direct damage to buildings in southern Lebanon from the Israeli aggression is estimated at approximately $1.38 billion, according to a new assessment by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Lebanon’s National Council for Scientific Research (CNRS).
The assessment, released on Monday, found that 11,095 buildings were completely destroyed, affecting nearly 18,000 housing units.
A further 2,242 buildings suffered partial damage, while 9,311 sustained minor damage.
Based on satellite imagery comparing conditions in late April with those in October 2025, the study does not account for destruction caused during the final weeks of the conflict.
Thousands of structures damaged
The rapid building-level assessment paints a stark picture of the impact of the fighting across southern Lebanon, where entire communities have been left devastated by months of hostilities.
The conflict erupted after Hezbollah launched rocket attacks into Israel on March 2 in support of Iran, prompting extensive Israeli air strikes and a ground invasion.
Israeli forces continue to invade parts of southern Lebanon, carrying out demolition and clearing operations in border areas.
Residents return amid fragile calm
Although an April 17 ceasefire repeatedly failed to hold, fighting paused on Saturday evening after threatening a broader agreement between Iran and the United States aimed at ending regional hostilities.
In recent days, some displaced residents have begun returning to inspect damaged homes and businesses, despite warnings from the Lebanese army to delay returning to certain border towns and villages.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that Israeli forces would remain in southern Lebanon "as long as necessary."
Lebanese authorities say more than 4,100 people have been killed and over one million displaced since the conflict began.
