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A toll-free emergency number that most people in Lebanon have in mind during a crisis is the three-digit “140,” which connects to the Lebanese Red Cross (LRC). The volunteer-based, non-profit organization has proven to be life-saving in times of war and peace.

Each year, the LRC handles over one million missions across the country, including vital healthcare services, emergency transportation, aid distribution, and mental health support. This number, however, has surged during times of crisis—most notably during the recent war between Israel and Hezbollah.

LRC’s 12,000 volunteers have been on permanent alert since 2019, when Lebanon’s economic crisis erupted, triggering nationwide protests and demonstrations; Georges Kettaneh, LRC’s Director General, told This is Beirut in an interview.

“First, we had the (anti-government) protests, followed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Beirut port explosion, and most recently, the war… Even now, we remain on alert, especially on the border with Syria and in the South,” Kettaneh said.

During wartime, the LRC worked in close coordination with the Higher Relief Committee based at the government seat in the Grand Serail, to ensure a unified emergency response.

Because of its neutrality, independence, and impartiality, the LRC is uniquely positioned to operate across all Lebanese regions. “From Arsal in the northeast to the southern border, from the Syrian frontier to the Blue Line with Israel, the Red Cross is on the ground—accepted by all communities and focused solely on its humanitarian mission,” Kettaneh said.

“We apply the Red Cross principles in practice, not just in words. Our mission is to save lives and preserve human dignity—regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation.”

The organization’s services include mobile clinics that roam the national territory in coordinated efforts with local authorities, municipalities, and the Lebanese Army.

During the civil war, when the whole country was divided and partitioned among the various militias, LRC teams could cross checkpoints and move from one area to another to carry out their mission.

Years of armed conflict, internal disturbances, and tensions between Lebanon and Israel have required the LRC to assist various communities and armed actors. This has allowed the LRC to demonstrate its neutrality and impartiality and build trust and credibility with all segments of society.

Nonetheless, the war did not spare the LRC, which had 15 volunteers killed while carrying out humanitarian duties.

LRC’s Challenges

Among the most pressing challenges the LRC faces is the protection of its mission. “Ensuring the safety of patients, hospitals, ambulances, and volunteers is critical. Access to affected areas must remain open and unobstructed, and respect for International Humanitarian Law must be upheld by all parties. The government should ensure this,” Kettaneh stressed.

A second, long-term challenge is the sustainability of its programs. Lebanon’s compounded economic, social, and health crises have strained the organization’s capacity. “Securing long-term funding is essential for continuing to serve communities in a context that remains volatile and unpredictable,” says Kettaneh, adding that the LRC continues to coordinate with the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement to strengthen operations, build institutional capacity, and meet increasing needs.

On May 8, which marks the anniversary of Henri Dunant, founder of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the LRC branches all over Lebanon launch their annual fundraising campaign to support field activities. International donations, however, are directed to the headquarters. The LRC also maintains strong ties with Lebanese expatriates, many of whom support the organization through regular donations.

Young LRC volunteers fanning the streets with their collection boxes are greeted by drivers and passersby donating money.

“People need an organization like the Red Cross,” says a young donor. “I help them because they help people and I might need them one day. They are not affiliated to any party or group. They are here just to serve society.”

In a country marked by repeated hardship, the Lebanese Red Cross stands as a beacon of hope, committed to neutrality, human dignity, and life-saving care—no matter the cost.