On October 24, a conference addressing the crisis in Lebanon took place in Paris, aiming to raise $1 billion for the country. Organized by France, the event saw representatives from approximately 70 countries and international organizations in attendance. French President Emmanuel Macron and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati were notable attendees, both emphasizing the urgent need to end hostilities in Lebanon and push for an immediate ceasefire to restore peace.

Prime Minister Mikati highlighted the significant loss of life and property caused by the conflict, alongside the severe damage inflicted on Lebanon’s infrastructure, economy, and societal structures. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General António Guterres, speaking via video, reported that over 2,300 people have died since fighting erupted in October of last year, with many victims being women and children. Additionally, more than 1.2 million individuals have been displaced or impacted by the violence.

Guterres called on Lebanese leaders to take decisive actions to ensure the functioning of national institutions in response to the country’s pressing political and security challenges. He urged all parties involved to bolster support for Lebanese state institutions, including the Lebanese Armed Forces, remarking that this support is essential for achieving safety and peace. He reiterated that attacks on UN peacekeepers violate international law and may constitute war crimes.

Following the conference, the French Foreign Ministry announced that the meeting successfully raised $1 billion for Lebanon, with $800 million earmarked for humanitarian assistance and $200 million designated to support Lebanese security forces. This total significantly exceeded France’s pre-conference target of raising 500 million euros.

However, key regional players closely related to the Lebanese conflict, specifically Israel and Iran, were absent from the meeting. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, currently visiting countries in the Middle East, also did not attend. This absence has led French analysts to suggest that the conference faces challenges in promoting diplomatic efforts to ease tensions in Lebanon.