Displaced people sleeping on the streets in Beirut. (Credit: Mohammad Yassin/L'Orient Today)
BEIRUT — Lebanon's cabinet, chaired by caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, met Wednesday at the Grand Serail and decided that all aid in response to the escalation of Israel's war will be funneled transparently through the United Nations, in coordination with Lebanese ministries.
Following the meeting, Lebanon’s government announced that 874 shelters are now housing displaced people, with the number expected to rise.
The cabinet noted that most of those sleeping on the streets are non-Lebanese. Many displaced individuals from marginalized communities — Syrian refugees and migrant workers — remain on the streets as shelters refuse to admit them.
The government said it is working with the UNHCR to address the issue and has instructed security forces to protect private property from potential encroachment.
Mikati briefed the ministers on recent meetings with U.N. organizations and donor countries to address the displacement crisis caused by Israeli aggression. The cabinet agreed that the aid would pass through "a clear and transparent mechanism through the United Nations, with implementation to be in cooperation with the Lebanese state and in coordination with each ministry according to its jurisdiction."
Mikati briefed ministers on recent meetings with U.N. organizations and donor countries aimed at addressing the displacement crisis caused by Israeli escalating aggression. The cabinet agreed that aid would be channeled through "a clear and transparent mechanism via the United Nations," with implementation coordinated with the Lebanese state and relevant ministries based on jurisdiction.
He also emphasized the need for $427 million for shelter and relief efforts over the next three months, with the potential for immediate approval of $200 million.
As a high priority, the cabinet announced it is considering converting al-Madina al-Riyaddiya, a large sports complex in Tariq al-Jadideh, Beirut, into a shelter to accommodate a significant number of displaced people.
Mikati also said he met with the Army Commander to ensure appropriate measures were taken to protect the country.