A United Nations official has made an urgent appeal for Lebanon’s ports and airport to be spared amid Israel’s ongoing offensive against the country. Carl Skau, the deputy executive director of the U.N. World Food Program, expressed concerns during a visit to Beirut that the vital ports and airport could be rendered inoperative, severely impacting the transportation of essential food supplies into Lebanon.
Skau emphasised the critical importance of keeping supply lines open and called for all possible diplomatic efforts to find a political resolution to the conflict. He highlighted the devastating situation he witnessed in Beirut and stressed the need to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
The UN official highlighted the escalating conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas, which has led to a significant rise in hunger due to obstacles in delivering food and supplies into the blockaded territory. Skau revealed that Israeli authorities had provided assurances that Lebanon’s ports and airport would not be shut down, but he cautioned that the situation was fluid and unpredictable.
As Israel intensifies its military actions in Lebanon, an estimated 1.2 million people have been displaced, with around 200,000 seeking refuge in collective shelters. The World Food Program is currently providing meals to those in need and has stocked up on food supplies, aiming to support a substantial portion of Lebanon’s population through the ongoing crisis.
Skau outlined the challenges faced in delivering aid, particularly after an Israeli strike disrupted access to a crucial border crossing between Lebanon and Syria. He urged for the reopening of the crossing to facilitate the transportation of essential supplies into Lebanon. The UN official also highlighted the increasing number of people crossing into Syria, placing additional strain on humanitarian assistance efforts.
Amid funding shortages impacting food assistance in Syria, the World Food Program is working to scale up its operations to meet the rising needs of vulnerable populations. Skau underlined the importance of continued support to ensure that vital aid reaches those affected by the conflicts in the region.
The UN official’s appeal underscores the urgent need for sustained international cooperation and humanitarian assistance to address the escalating crises in Lebanon and surrounding areas. As the situation continues to evolve, efforts to protect critical infrastructure and uphold humanitarian principles remain paramount to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable populations caught in the midst of conflict.