Beirut, Lebanon — In a significant gesture of support, the first relief plane from Saudi Arabia landed at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport on Sunday, October 13. The humanitarian aid initiative, organized by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), aims to alleviate the suffering of the Lebanese people amid escalating tensions and conflict in the region. Following the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Saudi aid plane carried over 40 tonnes of essential supplies, including food, medical equipment, and tents to assist those in need, especially as winter approaches.
The plane was accompanied by a dedicated relief team to facilitate rescue operations and support efforts on the ground. This delivery is part of Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to support the humanitarian and relief sectors in Lebanon, reinforcing the Kingdom's significant humanitarian role through KSrelief during times of crisis. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), this assistance is crucial as Lebanon faces unprecedented challenges resulting from recent hostilities.
The backdrop of this relief effort is marked by increasing violence in southern Lebanon, where the Israeli army has intensified its military operations since October 8, targeting Hezbollah sites in a bid to ensure the safe return of northern Israeli residents. The Israeli air campaign, which began on September 23, has led to over 1,150 deaths and the displacement of more than one million people. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported a staggering increase in war casualties, with 2,255 lives lost and 10,524 individuals wounded since the onset of hostilities last year.
As the situation continues to evolve, the arrival of Saudi humanitarian aid offers a glimmer of hope for many struggling to survive in the face of adversity. The Saudi relief initiative underscores a commitment to international solidarity and support for the Lebanese people during a critical time, highlighting the importance of humanitarian assistance in addressing the dire needs of those affected by conflict.
