During a cabinet session held on Wednesday, Prime Minister Mikati provided updates on his discussions with United Nations organizations and donor countries regarding Lebanon’s response plan for the displacement crisis.
According to Mikati, the number of shelter centers has reached approximately 874 and is expected to increase as the crisis persists.
Most individuals occupying public spaces are non-Lebanese, and efforts are underway, in cooperation with UNHCR and the Ministry of Social Affairs, to provide care and protection for these displaced people.
The Prime Minister emphasized the urgency of securing $427 million in aid for shelter and relief operations over the next three months, with $200 million already approved.
He assured that all humanitarian assistance will be channeled through transparent mechanisms coordinated with the Lebanese government, with each ministry contributing according to its area of expertise.
Among the notable developments, Beirut Sports City is being prepared as a major shelter center capable of accommodating a significant number of displaced individuals. Environment Minister Nasser Yassin and Minister of Youth and Sports George Kallas recently visited the site to assess its capacity.
Additionally, the Forum of Beirut is also being considered as a shelter for displaced individuals.
Security remains a top priority, with Mikati instructing the Lebanese Armed Forces to protect private properties and maintain public order amid the influx of displaced people. In coordination with the Ministry of Interior, efforts are being made to safeguard public and private spaces from any encroachments.
On the international front, Mikati expressed gratitude to global and Arab leaders for their support, specifically acknowledging the US-French initiative, backed by the European Union, Britain, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, to help Lebanon manage the crisis.
He reiterated that Israel bears full responsibility for the ongoing displacement and violations of UN Resolution 1701.
Meanwhile, Minister of Economy Amin Salam announced additional international support, with Pakistan set to send a 16-ton shipment of medical supplies. He also noted Turkey’s provision of water supplies for those displaced and housed at the Rashid Karami Exhibition Center in Tripoli.
