Two men in suits shaking hands.
In Beirut, Eide met Lebanon's President, Joseph Aoun. Credit: Guri Solberg / MFA.
 

In Beirut, the Foreign Minister met with Lebanon’s President Aoun. During the meeting, he expressed strong support for Lebanon’s demand that Israel withdraws from southern Lebanon and noted that Norway has condemned the massive Israeli attacks that have inflicted enormous suffering and destruction on the Lebanese population.

Eide informed the President that Norway is increasing its support for UNDP’s efforts to improve living conditions for personnel in the Lebanese Armed Forces and their families. Norway’s total contribution to this work amounts to NOK 65 million (USD 6,5 million).

'The Lebanese Armed Forces play an important role in ensuring stability and security in the country. We therefore wish to strengthen their ability to carry out their mandate under extremely challenging conditions,' said Eide.

Severely affected by war and conflict

Lebanon has been severely affected by conflicts in the region and by the repeated Israeli attacks. The country hosts several hundred thousand refugees. This places considerable pressure on Lebanon and many vulnerable local communities.

For decades, Norway has been an important partner for Lebanon, both through humanitarian assistance and support for long-term development and reform efforts. In 2026, Norway will provide a total of NOK 336 million (USD 34 million) in humanitarian and long-term support to Lebanon. The assistance will help strengthen national institutions, reform processes and capacity-building in the public sector. The humanitarian assistance  will address urgent needs such as emergency relief, shelter, food, healthcare, de-mining and protection.


Met with internally displaced persons

In Saida, located 45 minutes south of Beirut, the Foreign Minister met the governor, internally displaced persons and several organisations receiving Norwegian support.

A man in a suit and a child holding a balloon.
In Saida, Eide met families who had fled southern Lebanon. Credit: Guri Solberg / MFA.
 
'It was deeply moving to meet families with children who have been internally displaced as a result of the Israeli military operations. They are living with great uncertainty and have a strong desire to return home and resume their everyday lives. The children are suffering the most. The Lebanese people want to live in peace. It is completely unacceptable that a population already under severe strain is once again being affected,' said Foreign Minister Eide.