France has committed to providing a 100-million euro ($108-million) aid package to support Lebanon at an international conference held in Paris. The conference, attended by over 70 nations and international organizations, aims to raise funds to address the urgent humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. The United Nations has identified a need for $426 million in humanitarian aid for the country.
President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the necessity of massive aid to assist the Lebanese population, particularly those displaced by the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah militants and Israel. Germany and Italy have also pledged significant amounts in humanitarian aid to Lebanon and neighboring Syria, which is also grappling with escalating violence in the region.
However, experts caution that delivering aid in Lebanon may be challenging due to the country's reliance on an informal cash economy, leading to transparency and corruption concerns. The conference also focuses on bolstering Lebanon's armed forces to potentially facilitate a resolution to the conflict, including the withdrawal of Hezbollah forces from the border.
Lebanon's sovereignty and institutional strength are key priorities for international support, as the country has faced political deadlock and a lack of leadership. The devastating impact of the conflict has left over a million people displaced, with significant damage to infrastructure and the economy.
The Lebanese army, already strained by economic difficulties, lacks the resources to effectively respond to Israeli incursions and confront Hezbollah. Efforts to strengthen the Lebanese armed forces and the UN peacekeeping mission in the region are seen as crucial for achieving lasting peace and stability.
France's historical ties with Lebanon and its diplomatic influence position Paris as a key player in coordinating a comprehensive response to the crisis. The international community, including the UN, has called for decisive action to address Lebanon's urgent political and security challenges.
