Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
As hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel continue to escalate, the European Commission in Brussels announced today, Thursday, the provision of an additional 30 million euros in humanitarian aid to help those in need in Lebanon. This comes in addition to the 10 million euros already announced a few days ago, specifically on September 29, bringing the total humanitarian aid provided by the European Union to the country to more than 104 million euros this year.
In a statement distributed in Brussels, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said: "I am deeply concerned about the continued escalation of tensions in the Middle East. All parties must do their utmost to protect the lives of innocent civilians. Today, we are stepping up our humanitarian assistance to the people of Lebanon. Our new funding will ensure that civilians receive the assistance they desperately need during these extremely difficult times. We continue to call for a ceasefire across the border with Lebanon and in Gaza, as well as the release of all hostages."
“In this time of crisis for Lebanon, speed and efficiency in delivering aid are of paramount importance to save lives. With this emergency allocation, we aim to support those affected by the conflict in Lebanon immediately so that they can receive immediate relief. The EU remains committed to supporting the most vulnerable, and ensuring that vital resources, including food, shelter and healthcare, reach those most in need,” said European Commissioner Janez Lenarčič.

According to the European statement, “This new emergency aid package will provide urgent food aid, shelter and healthcare, among other essential support. The Commission is also facilitating the delivery of material assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism to Beirut.

The conflict has caused unprecedented displacement of the population in Lebanon, with thousands of civilian casualties and injuries.

People in Lebanon, including refugees, were already suffering from high levels of poverty and food insecurity with limited access to services.

It is estimated that nearly 2 million Lebanese and Syrian refugees are food insecure. This number is expected to rise further.
Since 2011, the EU has allocated over €971 million in humanitarian aid to respond to the urgent needs of the population, both Lebanese and refugees.
As the situation for the Lebanese population has deteriorated more broadly, especially since 2019, EU humanitarian assistance is being delivered to the most vulnerable Syrians and Lebanese.
The EU has also organised a series of Brussels Conferences on Syria to address the needs of Syrian refugees and host communities in Lebanon. Through our humanitarian funding, we support vulnerable populations to meet their basic needs through healthcare, education, protection and legal services.