The UN refugee chief has said that more than 50,000 people have fled to Syria amid escalating Israeli air strikes on Lebanon, AFP reports.

“More than 50,000 Lebanese and Syrians living in Lebanon have now crossed into Syria fleeing Israeli air strikes,” Filippo Grandi said on X. He added that “well over 200,000 people are displaced inside Lebanon”.

A UNHCR spokesman said the total number of displaced in Lebanon had reached 211,319, including 118,000 just since Israel dramatically ramped up its air strikes on Monday.

“Relief operations are underway, including by UNHCR, to help all those in need, in coordination with both governments,” Grandi said.