France will host an international conference on October 24 to mobilize $1 billion in aid for Lebanon over six months. The focus is on addressing urgent humanitarian needs, supporting Lebanese institutions, repairing infrastructure, and negotiating a ceasefire.
An earlier appeal in Beirut sought $426 million to help one million displaced people over three months, prioritizing food security, healthcare, and shelter. However, only 15.1% of the required funds have been raised so far.
There is a strong need for transparency in distributing aid and warnings against unequal or corrupt practices. In addition, the political implications of foreign aid must be highlighted, as it can mask or perpetuate historical colonial dynamics. Political action is necessary alongside humanitarian aid to address the root causes of Lebanon’s crisis, particularly the Israeli occupation.
Read the full Policy Watch in Arabic.