PARIS : French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced that France will send 60 tons of humanitarian assistance to Lebanon this week to support civilians affected by the ongoing hostilities in the country’s south.
In a statement, Barrot said France had tripled the planned aid shipment, which will include personal hygiene kits, sanitation supplies, lamps, and a mobile medical clinic to support communities displaced by the military operations launched by Israel against Hezbollah.
The announcement comes as the humanitarian situation worsens across Lebanon. According to figures released by the Lebanese government, around 760,000 people have been displaced since Israeli air strikes began targeting Lebanese territory.
Barrot also revealed that Paris is preparing to supply “dozens” of armored transport vehicles to the Lebanese Armed Forces, which France considers the sole legitimate force responsible for safeguarding the country’s security.
At the same time, France renewed its call on Hezbollah to halt attacks on Israel and surrender its weapons to Lebanese authorities, stressing the need to restore stability.
France has also voiced deep concern over the escalating violence in Lebanon. A spokesperson for the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs urged Israel to avoid launching a ground incursion or a large-scale military operation, emphasizing that Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty must be respected.
The French government said it is working closely with Lebanese authorities and international humanitarian organisations, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, to address the growing humanitarian needs of displaced civilians.
Paris also condemned Hezbollah’s decision to join Iran-backed attacks on Israel since March 1, calling the move irresponsible and urging the group to end its operations.
France further called on all parties involved in the conflict to exercise restraint and return to the ceasefire agreement reached on November 26, 2024, while fully respecting the provisions of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 aimed at maintaining stability along the Israel–Lebanon border.
France is sending 60 tons of humanitarian aid to Lebanon, including hygiene kits and a mobile medical clinic, as the conflict with Israel displaces 760,000 people. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized the need for stability and urged Hezbollah to cease attacks, while France prepares to supply armored vehicles to the Lebanese Armed Forces.