The UK has announced it will give £20.5 million to a foreign country to aid displaced families, amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. Lebanon continues to face the impact of conflict between Hizballah and Israel, which has displaced over a million civilians and caused widespread death and destruction.
On a ministerial visit, minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer has today (April 16) reaffirmed UK support for the country and announced new humanitarian funding. This includes £12.3 million for the Government of Lebanon’s Shock Responsive Safety Net and World Food Programme to ensure civilians can meet their basic needs, £2.9 million for the Lebanese Red Cross to provide key relief items (food, hygiene kits, mattresses, blankets, etc), equipment including ambulances and critical capacity to the Government of Lebanon’s Disaster Risk Management Unit, and £3.1 million via UNICEF to support to children and vulnerable families in shelters and non-formal education spaces. It forms part of a wider package for support to Lebanon and follows the £9.5m the UK Government announced earlier this year to respond to the humanitarian crisis.
During the visit to Beirut, Falconer met with Lebanese leaders to discuss efforts towards regional stability and security. He reiterated the need for the ceasefire to extend to Lebanon and expressed support for recent direct negotiations with Israel as the best path to enduring stability and security for both sides.
In a major increase in aid to the country, minister Falconer announced new support for the government of Lebanon’s crisis response and outlined the humanitarian projects the UK will be funding.
The projects are delivering life-saving aid and support to some of the most vulnerable families affected by conflict, including those who have been forced to leave their homes as a result of missile strikes.
The minister also expressed thanks to healthcare workers and first responders during a meeting with them. He reiterated that both must be protected by all sides and that attacks on staff doing these vital roles are unacceptable.
Minister for the Middle East, Hamish Falconer, said: “Conflict in the Middle East benefits no one. The UK is working with partners to de-escalate and pursue a political solution.
“People in Lebanon are again suffering a conflict they did not choose, with displacement robbing families of security and dignity. The UK is increasing support for those most in need, reflecting our commitment to regional stability.
“In Beirut, I met leaders and welcomed direct Israel–Lebanon talks. We need an end to hostilities. This Government will work with Lebanon and international partners to deliver vital aid and support a durable resolution. In Antalya, I will reinforce de-escalation efforts regionally.”
The UK Government remains “committed to supporting efforts to deliver peace and stability” across the Middle East, including “calling for the immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait and respect for the fundamental principles of freedom of navigation and the law of the sea to be upheld”.
