France Aims to Raise $400 Mln to Aid Displaced in Lebanon

France has announced its commitment to raising $400 million in humanitarian aid to support displaced individuals in Lebanon, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanon.

On Thursday, the international conference in Paris will prioritize responding to the United Nations' urgent appeal to provide much-needed assistance to over a million displaced people affected by the war.

According to the Élysée, the conference will focus on mobilizing financial contributions from various countries, with French President Emmanuel Macron expected to announce France’s contribution. The French presidency confirmed that efforts to gather aid are still ongoing.

Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot reiterated France's unwavering support for Lebanon, stating that "France stands by Lebanon and will not abandon it."

The conference will see the participation of 70 countries and 15 international organizations, aiming to secure not only humanitarian aid but also reaffirm the call for a ceasefire and diplomatic resolution to the conflict.

However, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will not be present, as he is currently on a diplomatic tour in the Middle East.

France and the US have both pushed for a truce in Lebanon, promoting a solution based on UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel.

This resolution strengthens the presence of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and limits military activity in the border area to the Lebanese army and international forces. The French government views the resolution as key to ensuring both Lebanon’s sovereignty and Israel’s security, allowing displaced Israelis to return home.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has reported significant disruptions in its operations due to the escalating security situation in Lebanon.

The growing displacement crisis, combined with other challenges such as basic services and health concerns, has forced the closure of 14 out of 27 UNRWA health centers, including all clinics in the Tyre area.

The agency has expressed concerns over the potential spread of cholera, which could further complicate the situation.