Belgium sends €150,000 worth of medical supplies to Lebanon

Belgium has dispatched €150,000 worth of medical equipment to Lebanon through its emergency relief structure, B-FAST. The supplies are being sent in response to Lebanon’s request for aid amid the ongoing conflict with Israel.

Lebanon is currently embroiled in a violent conflict between Israel and the Hezbollah militia, backed by Iran. Israeli forces are carrying out a ground offensive in the border region and conducting airstrikes against Hezbollah positions. Amid the intensifying violence, Lebanon’s government appealed to the European Union for emergency assistance.

In response, Belgium is stepping in by delivering essential medical materials, which are urgently needed to support the country’s overwhelmed hospitals. Supplies from Belgium’s strategic stockpile, including gloves, needles, compresses, bandages, and thermometers, will also be sent to counter the severe shortages.

“This escalating violence is creating one of the worst humanitarian crises in 25 years,” said acting federal health minister Frank Vandenbroucke. He urged for an immediate ceasefire, emphasising the need for diplomacy and peace rather than ongoing violence. Foreign minister Hadja Lahbib also called for de-escalation, stressing that the release of all hostages and a ceasefire are crucial to achieving peace in the region.

^{B-Fast (Belgian First Aid and Support Team) ahead of the departure to Turkey following the 6 February 2023 earthquake © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK}