As Israel continues its airstrikes in Lebanon, France has announced a $108 million aid package to support the country at an international conference in Paris on Thursday. President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the urgent need for “massive aid” amid Lebanon’s escalating humanitarian crisis, which has seen over 2,500 Lebanese casualties and more than a million displaced due to the conflict with Iran-backed Hezbollah.
In his opening speech, Macron highlighted the immediate needs of displaced families and host communities, stressing the importance of providing shelter, food, medical care, and education. He reiterated calls for a ceasefire and convened the conference to raise the $426 million urgently required by the UN to assist Lebanon.
France aims for financial commitments from attendees to meet the UN’s target, while Italy and Germany have also pledged new aid totaling $75.5 million. Additionally, France seeks to restore Lebanon’s sovereignty and strengthen its institutions, as the country remains without a president for two years amid political gridlock.