The caretaker Minister of Public Health, Firass Abiad, received a shipment of medical supplies and medications at Rafic Hariri International Airport provided by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), in the presence of WHO representative in Lebanon, Dr. Abdul Nasser Abu Bakr, and UNHCR representative Ivo Freijsen.
Abiad stated, "We are at Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut, receiving a shipment of aid consisting of medical supplies and medications for war casualties, prepared by the WHO and UNHCR, with support from the United Arab Emirates."
He pointed out that "this shipment comes at a very critical time, coinciding with the ongoing and expanding Israeli attacks on Lebanon. It carries two important messages: first, from our brothers and friends, saying that you are not alone in facing this aggression. We stand with your people, whether they are injured or displaced, with everything they need. The second message is the material assistance amid this crisis so that the health and relief sectors can fulfil their duties."
Abiad also announced that "there will be an air bridge from the United Arab Emirates to Lebanon, and this afternoon, a plane carrying 55 tons of aid will arrive, with more planes to come from Slovakia, Poland, and other countries."
He emphasized that "all of this is to strengthen our relief system in confronting the crisis we are in."
On his part, Abu Bakr said, "The WHO and the United Nations system, in general, are committed to alleviating the pressures on Lebanon and its people, as well as other vulnerable individuals living in the country. We stand by the government and the people of Lebanon to overcome this challenge."
UNHCR representative Ivo Freijsen added, "We want to show our solidarity with Lebanon through the work of all humanitarian organizations in providing the necessary assistance, and we call on all donors to respond swiftly."