Beirut: The Parliamentary Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Committee convened on Thursday under the leadership of MP Fadi Alameh, with the presence of UNHCR representative Ivo Freijsen, committee members, security officials, and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The session concentrated on the ongoing issue of Syrian displacement, highlighted by a recent influx of refugees arriving in Baalbek, Hermel, and Akkar due to developments in Syria.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the UNHCR has raised concerns over financial assistance challenges. The aid, which previously supported 800,000 families with $145 per household, faces potential reductions due to funding shortages, possibly decreasing to 200,000 families within two months. This financial strain calls for immediate attention from international donors to prevent further humanitarian distress.
MP Fadi Alameh emphasized the importance of the Lebanese government engaging with Syrian authorities to expedite refugee repatriation. He noted that the political reasons for the prolonged displacement of Syrian refugees are no longer valid, urging for a strategic collaboration with international donors to secure necessary funding. Alameh advocated for implementing a structured plan to facilitate the refugees' return, addressing both current challenges and long-term solutions.