Iraq discusses relief efforts for Palestinians and Lebanese victims of escalating regional crisis

NEWSROOM – Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani chaired a meeting on Thursday with key ministers and officials to address Iraqi relief efforts for Palestinians and Lebanese affected by the ongoing conflicts with Israel. The meeting focused on sustaining aid and supporting displaced individuals, with Al-Sudani directing that assistance be organized for those impacted in both Lebanon and Palestine, as well as for Lebanese families arriving in Iraq.

In the past ten days, Iraq has received nearly 5,000 Lebanese citizens fleeing the conflict in their country.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced on Wednesday that Israeli attacks in Lebanon have displaced 1.2 million people. Since September 23, Israel has conducted extensive airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions across Lebanon. The Lebanese Health Ministry reports that these strikes have resulted in over 1,000 deaths and more than 2,950 injuries.

Full statement from Al-Sudani’s media office:

Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani chaired a meeting today, Thursday, which included the Crisis and Disaster Management Team and the Committee for the Relief of the Palestinian and Lebanese People. The meeting was attended by the Ministers of Interior, Health, Trade, and Electricity, as well as the General Coordinator for the Provinces, the Deputy Minister of Migration, the Deputy Commander of Joint Operations, and the President of the Iraqi Red Crescent Society.

During the meeting, the committee’s efforts were reviewed, with a focus on the initiatives launched in response to the ongoing aggression on Gaza since last October, as well as the expansion of its activities following the aggression against Lebanon. The discussion focused on implementing relief plans in line with the recent decisions of the Council of Ministers issued two days ago, following the directives of the supreme religious authority and the affirmations of the Prime Minister. These efforts reflect the desire of the Iraqi people to assist the Palestinian and Lebanese peoples during their difficult circumstances.

The meeting also addressed the resources available to sustain the relief efforts. Prime Minister Al-Sudani directed that the aid be organized in a way that enables Iraq to provide assistance to the displaced and deliver aid to those affected, whether inside Lebanon or in Palestine. Additionally, support for Lebanese families who have arrived in Iraq will be ensured, with all possible forms of assistance. The meeting also explored the logistics of transporting aid and the best ways to ensure it reaches its intended destinations.

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