As Israel intensifies its airstrikes in Lebanon, France has announced a $108 million aid package to support Lebanon during an international conference held in Paris on Thursday.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the urgency of “massive aid” to help Lebanon cope with an escalating humanitarian crisis.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah militants has resulted in over 2,500 Lebanese casualties, the displacement of more than a million people, and has worsened Lebanon’s economic troubles.
“In the immediate term, massive aid is needed for the Lebanese population, both for the hundreds of thousands displaced by the war and for the communities hosting them,” Macron said in his opening remarks at the conference.
He outlined the immediate needs for displaced families, which include shelter, food, medical care, and educational support for children.
Macron also renewed his call for a ceasefire as he urged international leaders to help raise the $426 million that the United Nations says is critical to assist Lebanon.
“Solutions must be found quickly to prevent the movement of people from southern Lebanon to Beirut and other areas from creating new divides among the Lebanese population,” said Macron.
France hopes contributions at the conference will reach the UN’s target. Italy recently committed an additional $10.8 million, and Germany pledged $64.7 million on Wednesday to support Lebanon.
Beyond humanitarian aid, Paris aims to bolster Lebanon’s sovereignty and strengthen its institutions. The nation has been without a president for two years, with Hezbollah’s influence complicating efforts to elect a new leader.
