The United States has announced a new humanitarian assistance package of nearly $157 million to aid populations affected by conflict in Lebanon and the surrounding region. This funding is intended to address both new and existing needs of internally displaced persons and refugee populations within Lebanon, as well as those fleeing to neighboring Syria.

"This life-saving assistance from the American people includes nearly $82 million immediately available through the Department of State’s Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration and $75 million through the United States Agency for International Development’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance," stated Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State.

Of the total amount, USAID has already deployed $11.5 million. In collaboration with Congress, plans are underway to release an additional $63.5 million in the coming weeks to ensure that essential humanitarian aid continues to reach vulnerable communities. The assistance package includes emergency food, shelter, blankets, hygiene kits, protection services, water supply, and sanitation support.

Over the past year, the United States has provided approximately $386 million to support vulnerable populations in Lebanon and Syria impacted by escalating conflicts. The current crisis in Lebanon has resulted in more than a million people being displaced from their homes.

"The United States is committed to helping those most vulnerable in Lebanon and throughout the region," Blinken emphasized. He also called on other donors to join efforts in addressing these pressing humanitarian needs.