$1 billion pledged in support of Lebanon at Paris summit
Dozens of countries and international organizations, including the United States, France, and the United Nations, have committed $1 billion to Lebanon during a humanitarian aid conference held in Paris.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced at the summit’s conclusion on Thursday that 70 countries and 15 UN agencies had collectively pledged $800 million in humanitarian assistance and $200 million for security forces.
“The participants underscored the urgent need for a diplomatic solution to ensure lasting security for both Israel and Lebanon,” Barrot said at a news conference alongside Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati.
“This includes ending hostilities on both sides of the border, significantly deploying the Lebanese armed forces in the south, enhancing the capacity of the UN peacekeeping force to fulfill its mandate, and resolving the land border dispute,” he added. “Hezbollah, which bears significant responsibility for this conflict, must cease its attacks and adhere to UN resolutions.”
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed his gratitude, stating, “Today, I can truly say that I feel Lebanon is not alone. However, my heart is heavy for Lebanon, as we must increasingly mobilize support for a country that values coexistence, freedoms, and principles to protect it from this unjust Israeli aggression.”
