The United Kingdom announced on Thursday the delivery of humanitarian aid to displaced families of Lebanese army members, in the context of a persisting humanitarian crisis in Lebanon.
The British Chargé d’Affaires, Victoria Dunne, accompanied by Vice-Attaché of Defense Thomas Hobbs, met with senior officers of the Lebanese army at the army logistics center in Beirut, where the assistance was handed over.
Worth over $150,000, this aid provided by the British Ministry of Defense includes personal hygiene kits, bedding, washing machines, and cleaning products. It is intended to meet the needs of hundreds of families affected by the conflict.
This initiative is part of a broader humanitarian effort by London, which announced last week a $27 million package to address the crisis in Lebanon, bringing its total assistance since March to $40 million.
The recent conflict has caused a major humanitarian crisis in the country, with over a million people forced to flee their homes. Dwellings and essential infrastructure have been destroyed, also affecting the families of military personnel, already weakened by the security situation.
The ceasefire that came into effect on April 16, however, brings hope for stabilization. The UK states that it continues its diplomatic efforts towards lasting peace, while reaffirming its longstanding support for the Lebanese army, a partner for over a decade.
Since 2009, London has indicated it has trained thousands of Lebanese soldiers and allocated over $150 million to support the army.
“The delivery of this aid is a direct response to the humanitarian crisis, which also affects the families of the Lebanese Armed Forces,” stated Ms. Dunne, emphasizing that the UK will continue to support both the army and the humanitarian response led by the Lebanese government.
Mr. Hobbs, on his part, affirmed that this support “reflects the UK’s commitment to helping those affected by the conflict, while continuing to support the Lebanese Armed Forces as the legitimate defenders of Lebanon.”
