The Chinese Ambassador to Lebanon, Qian Minjian, announced that the Chinese government has decided to provide one million US dollars in cash as urgent assistance to Lebanese displaced by the recent clashes along the southern Lebanese border. This statement came during his meeting with the caretaker Prime Minister of Lebanon, Najib Mikati, in the presence of the Minister of Social Affairs, Hector Hajjar, and the President of the Council for Development and Reconstruction, Nabil El-Jisr.
Ambassador Qian also conveyed greetings from the Chinese Premier on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of Lebanon’s independence to President Mikati. This financial aid reflects China’s growing involvement and humanitarian interest in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including political instability, economic crises, and the impact of regional conflicts.
China’s donation comes at a critical time for Lebanon, as the country grapples with the consequences of border skirmishes that have resulted in a significant number of displaced individuals. The aid is expected to provide much-needed relief to those affected by the conflict, addressing immediate needs such as shelter, food, and medical care.
This gesture of solidarity from China signifies the strengthening of Sino-Lebanese relations and China’s commitment to playing a more active role in regional humanitarian issues. It also highlights the increasing geopolitical importance of Lebanon in the context of broader Middle Eastern dynamics. The donation is a part of China’s broader strategy to enhance its diplomatic and humanitarian footprint globally, especially in regions experiencing turmoil and conflict.
The recent tensions in Lebanon involving Israeli troops in 2023 escalated significantly on October 8, when the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah fired guided rockets and artillery shells at Israeli positions in the disputed Shebaa Farms area. This attack was in support of and in response to the Hamas attack on Israel that had occurred the day before. Israel retaliated with drone strikes and artillery shells at Hezbollah positions near the boundary with the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. This conflict marks the largest escalation in the Hezbollah–Israel conflict since the 2006 Lebanon War
