S'pore pledges S$128,000 to support humanitarian aid efforts for Lebanon

Singapore has pledged US$100,000 (about S$128,000) in support of international humanitarian aid efforts for Lebanon, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said on Apr. 23.

The sum will go towards the Jordanian-led Humanitarian Assistance Initiative for Lebanon, and will contribute to providing civilians with medical supplies, food assistance, shelter, and hygiene essentials.

The Singapore government has been closely following the concerning humanitarian situation in Lebanon, the MFA said.

The ministry added, "We urge all sides to adhere to the existing ceasefire in Lebanon, engage in negotiations for lasting resolution to the conflict, and prioritise the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure."

The situation in Lebanon

On Mar. 2, Israel launched military operations in Lebanon following the attack of armed militant group Hezbollah on Israel.

According to Lebanon's health ministry, the fighting has killed over 2,100 people, and displaced over a million people in Lebanon, BBC reported.

On Apr. 16, the two countries agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, and after a meeting at the White House on Apr. 23, agreed to extend it for three weeks.

Hezbollah, however, was not present at the talks, reported Reuters.

The Apr. 16 ceasefire has since reduced violence between the two sides significantly, but attacks have continued in southern Lebanon, where Israel occupies Lebanon's territory.

Humanitarian aid

Apart from Singapore, nine other countries and the European Union have supported the Jordanian-led relief efforts for Lebanon.

The initiative is being implemented in coordination with Jordan's foreign ministry and armed forces, the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO) said, as reported by Jordan Times.

A 19-truck aid convoy left Jordan for Lebanon on Apr. 23, carrying essential food supplies, tents, and relief materials.

Top images from UNICEF and UNHCR