Paris Conference Secures $1 Bln in Aid for Lebanon

At the Paris Conference on Thursday, international delegates pledged a total of $1 billion in humanitarian and military aid to Lebanon, a country facing an escalating crisis due to recent Israeli attacks.

These assaults have led to the displacement of around 1.4 million Lebanese residents and nearly 3,000 casualties, highlighting the urgent need for international intervention and support.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced that the pledges include $800 million in humanitarian aid and $200 million allocated specifically for the Lebanese security forces.

Over 70 government delegations and 15 international organizations participated in the Paris talks, intending to raise at least €500 million in immediate humanitarian assistance and to advocate for a ceasefire in the conflict zone.

French President Emmanuel Macron appealed to participants for substantial support to assist Lebanon, as France alone committed $100 million in aid.

Meanwhile, the United States pledged around $300 million, and Germany contributed €96 million in aid, covering Lebanon and neighboring Syria. Italy also extended an additional €10 million to support Lebanon’s growing needs.

The Paris Conference also focused on coordinating international support for the Lebanese Armed Forces, which are experiencing severe strains due to an extended economic crisis that has left them with outdated equipment and no air defenses, hampering their ability to secure the border against incursions.

Macron noted that the military support will include healthcare, fuel, and essential equipment, alongside a plan to recruit and deploy thousands of additional soldiers to the southern border region.