BEIRUT: Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati chaired a crucial meeting at the Grand Serail on Wednesday, joined by key government ministers and representatives from the United Nations and donor nations, to address Lebanon's escalating humanitarian crisis due to ongoing Israeli military actions. The conference highlighted Lebanon's dire situation, with Mikati appealing for global assistance to implement the country's crisis response plan effectively. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the meeting convened Deputy Prime Minister Saadeh Shami, along with ministers of Education, Finance, Health, Social Affairs, Energy, and Labor. Mikati underscored the devastation in Lebanon, stating, "Lebanon is under continuous assault in clear violation of international humanitarian law. So far, around 2,400 people have been killed, more than 10,000 wounded, and nearly one million displaced by the ongoing war launched by Israel." He emphasized the immediate need for international support to manage the crisis, which includes the highest rate of displaced individuals globally. UN Resident Coordinator Imran Riza also emphasized the importance of joint efforts and transparent execution of Lebanon's response plan. Riza proposed a comprehensive review of the plan to adjust strategies and budgets according to the evolving situation, starting next month. Minister of Social Affairs Hector Hajjar highlighted the government's role in coordinating aid efforts, emphasizing adherence to national standards to protect territorial integrity while addressing the Israeli attacks. In a separate discussion, Dr. Youssef Bakhash, President of the Lebanese Order of Physicians, briefed Mikati on the healthcare challenges, particularly the treatment of over 11,000 wounded since September 17. Bakhash stressed the necessity for sustained support to hospitals and long-term care for war casualties. Further meetings saw Minister of Labor Mustafa Bayram affirming Lebanon's resilience against the adversity posed by Israel, and MP Jihad Samad critici zing the international community's lack of action to secure a ceasefire and enforce UN Resolution 1701. Mikati also engaged with various officials and entities, including the Lebanese banking sector and religious leaders, to discuss broader implications of the crisis.
