UAE sets up Lebanon emergency aid programme

Emirates sends plane carrying 40 tonnes of medical supplies as part of $100 million support package

Live updates: Follow the latest on Israel-Gaza

The UAE has launched a relief campaign in support of Lebanon and its people amid Israel's invasion and continued aerial strikes, which the country's government said has resulted in the deaths of more than 1,000 people and the displacement of about one million.

President Sheikh Mohamed’s initiative - called UAE stands with Lebanon - provides an urgent humanitarian relief package worth $100 million to the country.

The UAE, in co-operation with the World Health Organisation, sent an aid plane on Friday carrying 40 tonnes of medical supplies. It took off from Al Maktoum Airport in Dubai, carrying the first aid package under the new relief campaign. The flight was sent as part of the UAE's humanitarian efforts to support Lebanon.

Palettes of aid for Lebanon unloaded from a UAE cargo aircraft at Beirut International Airport. Reuters

The UAE has expressed deep concern about the escalating attacks in Lebanon, as well as the repercussions of the dangerous situation and its impact on stability in the region.

On Friday, at least 11 medical workers were killed in Israeli attacks on south Lebanon as four hospitals suspended their work because of the bombardment.

Seven emergency personnel were killed at a hospital in Marjayoun. The other four were killed in other attacks on south Lebanon.

Mais Al Jabal Hospital on the border with Israel announced it was halting all work, saying attacks on the hospital, problems for supply lines and staff access were to blame.

Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Co-operation, stressed that “these efforts come within the framework of the keenness of the wise leadership of the UAE to provide urgent humanitarian support around the world, and embody the commitment of the state, its leadership and its people to the values of solidarity and co-operation, and the constant endeavour to be at the forefront of countries that provide aid, support and assistance to humanity”.

She added that the flight was the beginning of the UAE’s response to the urgent situation in Lebanon, and that the Emirates would continue to provide all possible humanitarian aid to alleviate suffering and meet urgent needs, especially for vulnerable groups.

The US will be sending $157 million in aid to Lebanon as the Israeli invasion continues to cause chaos in the country.

"The US is at the forefront of humanitarian response to the growing crisis in Lebanon," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a post on X.

"We are committed to supporting those in need and delivering essential aid to displaced civilians, refugees and the communities hosting them."

In a separate statement, Mr Blinken said the funding "will address new and existing needs of internally displaced persons and refugee populations inside Lebanon and the communities that host them" and "will also support those fleeing to neighbouring Syria".

Lebanese leader grateful for support

Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, thanked the UAE for delivering the key assistance and for its continued support of the Lebanese people in a call made to Sheikh Mohamed, state news agency Wam reported on Saturday.

Sheikh Mohamed reaffirmed that the Emirates remained committed to helping Lebanon during challenging times. He underlined the UAE’s firm position on Lebanon’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and stressed the need for international efforts to cease hostilities and ensure full protection for civilians in accordance with international law.