Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed addresses the media in Abu Dhabi. File

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

In implementation of the directives of His Highness UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE launched a national relief campaign to support Lebanon and its brotherly people in light of the ongoing ground escalation under the name "The UAE is with you, Lebanon."

Based on the order of the President, the UAE will provide an urgent humanitarian relief package worth $100 million to the brothers in Lebanon.

The UAE, in cooperation with the World Health Organization, sent on Friday an aid plane carrying 40 tonnes of urgent medical supplies. This plane, which took off from Al Maktoum Airport in Dubai, is the first to land in Lebanon as part of this relief campaign.

The dispatch of the plane comes within the framework of the UAE's humanitarian efforts to support the brotherly Lebanese people, and as an expression of the depth of fraternal relations between the two countries, especially in these critical circumstances, and as an embodiment of the UAE's humanitarian vision and the principles of historical brotherhood in providing aid in times of crisis.

Reem Bint Ibrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, stressed that “these efforts come within the framework of the keenness of the wise leadership of the UAE to provide urgent humanitarian support around the world, and embody the commitment of the state, its leadership and its people to the values of solidarity and cooperation, and the constant endeavor to be at the forefront of countries that provide aid, support and assistance to humanity.”

She stressed that this plane is the beginning of an Emirati response to the urgent situation facing the brotherly Lebanese people, explaining that the UAE is continuing to provide all possible humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering and meet urgent needs, especially the most vulnerable and needy groups.

The UAE expressed its deep concern about the increasing escalation in Lebanon and the repercussions of the dangerous situation and its impact on stability in the region.

It also affirmed its support for the brotherly Lebanese people in facing challenges, and its firm position towards Lebanon’s unity, national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and called on the international community to intensify efforts to stop the escalation of fighting to prevent bloodshed, and for civilians to enjoy full protection under international law and international treaties.