China delivers critical medical aid to Lebanon amid escalating conflict

By AJP Posted : October 22, 2024, 10:08 Updated : October 22, 2024, 10:10
Emergency medical aid from China is unloaded by staff members at Rafik Hariri International Airport in Beirut, Lebanon on Oct. 21, 2024. Xinhua-Yonhap
SEOUL, October 22 (AJP) - China delivered a shipment of emergency medical aid to Lebanon on Monday, as the country contends with casualties from ongoing cross-border conflicts with Israel.

The delivery included 3,601 boxes containing anesthesia machines, tracheal intubation tubes, and surgical gowns, which arrived at Beirut's Rafik Hariri International Airport. Chinese Ambassador Qian Minjian and Lebanese Health Minister Firass Abiad were present at the handover ceremony.

Qian highlighted that the conflict has inflicted significant suffering on the Lebanese people, resulting in numerous casualties and the displacement of refugees.

"China firmly supports Lebanon in preserving its national sovereignty, security, and dignity, and strongly opposes any indiscriminate attacks against civilians," stated the Chinese ambassador, expressing hope that the medical aid would help alleviate the pressure on Lebanon's healthcare system.

Abiad, representing the Lebanese government, thanked China for its timely humanitarian assistance.

He commended China's ongoing support for Lebanon, particularly noting previous aid during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the aftermath of the 2020 Beirut port explosion.

China's contributions symbolize a significant gesture of solidarity with Lebanon, he added.

Since Sept. 23, the Israeli army has launched extensive air attacks on Lebanon, marking a dangerous escalation with Hezbollah.

Israel has increased its raids and shelling in southern and eastern Lebanon, as well as in Mount Lebanon and the southern suburbs of Beirut. Earlier this month, Israel announced the initiation of a ground operation near the southern Lebanon border.

According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces since October 2023 have led to over 2,400 deaths and more than 11,000 injuries.

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