Australia will provide a further $10 million in humanitarian assistance to conflict-affected civilians in Lebanon.
Around 800,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon by the conflict between Israel and Hizballah. Emergency shelters have been overwhelmed and humanitarian workers killed.
Australia’s humanitarian assistance will be delivered through United Nations partners to address immediate and emerging needs, including access to food, shelter, healthcare and other critical services.
This will support international efforts, including through the International Conference in Support of Lebanon’s People and Sovereignty, convened in Paris overnight.
Since 7 October 2023, we have committed $94.5 million in humanitarian assistance to support civilians impacted by conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon and to respond to the refugee crisis in the region worsened by those conflicts.
Australia has been clear in its call for ceasefires in both Lebanon and in Gaza. We continue to call for all parties to uphold international law and protect civilians and humanitarian workers.
We continue to advise Australians not to travel to Lebanon. Australians in Lebanon should leave. Australians in Lebanon can register on DFAT’s Crisis Portal or by calling the Australian Government’s 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:
“The conflict in Lebanon is taking a heavy toll on civilians, including women and children, with around 800,000 people having now been displaced.
“Australia and our partners continue to press for ceasefires in Lebanon and in Gaza. This additional contribution will help those in urgent need, through access to food, shelter and healthcare.”
Minister for International Development and The Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:
“Civilians and humanitarian workers must be protected, and humanitarian personnel must be able to access all individuals in need of assistance.”
“Australia’s humanitarian funding will provide critical services for people displaced or affected by these conflicts and help protect the most vulnerable.”