Global Pledges $1 Billion for Lebanon Amid Escalating Crisis Following Gaza Conflict
A coalition of governments and international organizations has mobilized $1 billion to address the urgent humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken continues his diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. The escalating violence from the Israeli-Hamas conflict has had repercussions that extend beyond Gaza, affecting hundreds of thousands in Lebanon.
During a donor conference held in Paris on October 24, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced that $800 million was raised specifically to assist those displaced by the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, which exercises significant influence over southern Lebanon. In addition, $200 million was pledged to bolster the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), a national security force tasked with executing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which mandates the removal of all foreign troops and weapons from southern Lebanon, save for those belonging to the Lebanese state.
Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, characterized the current turmoil as unprecedented, warning that it carries the potential for total destruction. His remarks reflect the deepening crisis as violence escalates in the region, triggered by the incursion of Hamas militants into Israel on October 7, 2023, which claimed approximately 1,200 lives and resulted in the abduction of about 240 individuals taken as hostages to Gaza.
In response, Israel has launched a severe military campaign against Hamas. According to the Gaza-based Health Ministry, this offensive has resulted in around 43,000 casualties and displaced nearly the entirety of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents.
The European Union has classified Hamas as a terrorist organization, while it has imposed restrictions on Hezbollah's armed faction, differentiating it from its political arm, which holds seats in the Lebanese parliament and operates in a complex political landscape.
Recent developments included a shift in the peace negotiation landscape, particularly following the reported death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, which some believe could provide an opening for renewed dialogue. Secretary Blinken indicated during talks in Qatar on October 24 that efforts are underway to explore various options to advance peace talks and address critical issues such as ceasefire negotiations and hostage situations.
Scheduled discussions in Doha are set to involve Israeli officials on October 25, while Qatari authorities have engaged with representatives from Hamas’s political office regarding the ongoing conflict. The international community continues to look for effective solutions to resolve the multi-faceted crisis that threatens stability in both Lebanon and the wider region.
Related Sources: