Brussels: In response to the escalating situation in the Middle East, the European Union has mobilised emergency humanitarian aid to address the urgent needs arising in Lebanon. The aid package includes food, medical kits, shelter materials, recreation kits, and winter clothing, aiming to support over 680,000 individuals recently displaced due to ongoing hostilities.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the aid will be facilitated through EU's humanitarian partners, namely the World Food Program (WFP) and UNICEF. The WFP is set to deliver 404 metric tonnes of food assistance to more than 90,000 people, leveraging a new EU-WFP funding modality that allows for rapid mobilisation of resources. This funding mechanism is being utilised for the first time to expedite response efforts in the region.
A Humanitarian Airbridge Flight will transport medical and non-food items from the EU's warehouse in Copenhagen to UNICEF, targeting the needs of over 100,000 vulnerable individuals. Commissioner Hadja Lahbib emphasised the EU's commitment to Lebanon, highlighting the swift actions undertaken to provide essential support to those affected.
EU leaders, including President Ursula von der Leyen and President Antonio Costa, have expressed deep concern over the crisis's impact on Lebanon, stressing the importance of civilian protection and the respect for Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The EU stands ready to increase support for the most vulnerable during this challenging period.