Russia pledges continued humanitarian aid to Lebanon amid Israeli attacks

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Monday that Moscow would continue providing humanitarian aid to Lebanon amid escalating Israeli military operations. Speaking during talks with Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji in Moscow, Lavrov reaffirmed Russia's support for Lebanon's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. “I wish to confirm, clearly and unequivocally, Russia’s principled position in favor of ensuring Lebanon’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity,” Lavrov said. He said nearly 1 million Lebanese citizens had been severely affected by the hostilities, adding that the humanitarian situation remained tense. “We sent humanitarian aid to your country in April for those in need, and we intend to continue providing assistance,” Lavrov said. He also said the situation in Lebanon could not be viewed separately from other conflicts and developments in the region, expressing hope that the two sides would discuss ways to support regional stability. Rajji said Lebanon had endured a difficult five years marked by a severe economic crisis, the 2020 Beirut port explosion and two years without a president or a functioning government. He said the country's new leadership was working to restore sovereignty and territorial integrity while implementing socioeconomic reforms. The meeting came amid continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon since March 2, which have killed 4,386 people and injured 12,413 others, according to Lebanese authorities. On June 26, Beirut and Tel Aviv signed a US-sponsored framework agreement providing for a gradual Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory and the deployment of the Lebanese army in those areas. Despite the agreement, Israel has continued attacks on southern Lebanon and remains in control of areas there, some occupied for decades and others seized during recent wars and military operations.