Beirut, Lebanon – German Development Minister Svenja Schulze made a brief but impactful visit to Lebanon on Monday, aiming to extend support to the millions of refugees and displaced persons affected by the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
Lebanon, already grappling with longstanding crises, has seen further strain as violence escalates across the border, particularly in the wake of heightened tensions following rocket attacks and ongoing clashes.
The German Bundestag recently approved an additional €60 million ($65.4 million) for emergency assistance, enabling Schulze’s ministry to address critical needs such as healthcare, food, and clean drinking water for vulnerable communities. The minister’s trip to Beirut, limited to eight hours for security concerns, underscored Germany’s commitment to assisting Lebanon during this difficult time.
During her visit, Schulze toured a communal kitchen and emergency shelter, where she observed the essential aid work firsthand. In a meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Schulze highlighted the mutual importance of stabilizing Lebanon.
“It is in the interest of Lebanon to stabilize the situation here, but it is also in Germany’s interest,” she remarked, expressing concern over the potential regional impact of the ongoing hostilities.
Schulze also called for a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah while defending Germany’s recent arms exports to Israel. “We support Israel, that is part of our reason of state; Israel must be able to defend itself,” she stated, referencing Germany’s historic commitment to Israel.
Amid the visit, Schulze emphasized Germany’s long-standing support for Lebanon, countering growing regional hostility toward Germany due to its stance on Israel. “We have been supporting Lebanon for many years,” she reiterated.
The minister’s call for peace is underscored by the worsening humanitarian conditions in Lebanon. The United Nations reports over 800,000 people have been displaced by recent violence, adding to the approximately 1.2 million Syrian refugees already in the country. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reports a toll of around 3,000 fatalities since the conflict’s escalation.
This latest wave of support from Germany follows additional security assistance to Israel. Germany’s Security Council has approved €94 million in arms exports to Israel since August, emphasizing Germany’s commitment to Israel’s defence amid ongoing attacks, including those from Hezbollah.
As Lebanon grapples with an increasingly dire humanitarian situation, Schulze’s visit serves as a reminder of Germany’s dedication to Lebanon’s stability and the urgent need for peace in the region.