Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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March 13, 2026 Humanitarian aid
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who is visiting Lebanon, launched a $308.3 million emergency humanitarian aid campaign to support the country's population. Escalating violence in the region has resulted in widespread destruction, civilian casualties, and mass displacement.
Guterres arrived in Beirut on Friday, calling his trip "a visit of solidarity with the people of Lebanon." In his address, the UN chief emphasized that "solidarity in words must be matched by solidarity in deeds."
Humanitarian priorities
According to the Secretary-General, the military escalation in the region is having a devastating impact on Lebanon. Hundreds of civilians have been killed, including many children. Entire communities have been forced to leave their homes, and people's lives were completely disrupted.
Evacuation zones across the country have expanded significantly, and access to food, water, health care, education and other basic services has been severely disrupted.
According to the UN, more than 816,000 people have been displaced within Lebanon, while another 90,000 or more – mostly Syrians, but also Lebanese – have crossed the border into Syria.
Relief efforts
Despite the dire situation, the UN chief noted the expressions of solidarity and mutual assistance within the country. Schools are opening their doors to accommodate displaced families, health workers continue to work under enormous strain, and local communities are demonstrating extraordinary resilience in the face of enormous upheaval.
UN agencies and humanitarian partners are working with national authorities to deliver hot meals, drinking water, hygiene supplies and essential items.
"These efforts are saving lives, but they urgently require much more support," the Secretary-General said.
Additional funding
The funds requested by the UN are for three months and will be used to expand vital assistance, including food, clean water, health services, education, protection of civilians and other essential services.
The success of the operation will depend on rapid and flexible funding, as well as on ensuring safe access for humanitarian workers to people in need.
Guterres also noted that the escalation occurred during religiously significant periods: Ramadan for Muslims and Lent for Christians. Both religions encourage their followers to show compassion and support each other.
He said that for many years, Lebanon has welcomed people fleeing conflict, demonstrating to the world the true meaning of hospitality and solidarity. "And now, in this hour of grave danger and great need, the world must stand with the people of Lebanon," he declared.
Ceasefire and negotiations
The Secretary General also stressed the need immediate ceasefire, which should create conditions for negotiations and allow Lebanon to restore its territorial integrity and strengthen state institutions.
Earlier on Friday, he met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. The Secretary-General reaffirmed the UN's firm support for the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Discussions also focused on the full implementation of Security Council resolutions 1559 and 1701, including strengthening security and stability.in the Blue Line area, separating Lebanon and Israel.
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