35% of Lebanese Citizens Below Poverty Line Amid Ongoing Social Crisis, Minister Reports
At least 35% of Lebanese citizens are living below the poverty line, as reported by Social Affairs Minister Haneen Sayed, with nearly half of the population relying on state assistance. The Lebanese Parliament has approved a $250 million World Bank loan for infrastructure reconstruction, but Sayed deemed the funding insufficient amidst ongoing military conflict and a prolonged social crisis. Major reconstruction efforts are anticipated to begin in 2026, contingent on security stability and the assessment of damaged areas.

At least 35% of Lebanese citizens live below the national poverty line, according to Social Affairs Minister Haneen Sayed. A ministry study indicates that nearly half the population relies on state assistance, with the 'Aman' program supporting around 160,000 vulnerable families.
Lebanon's recovery from a financial collapse in 2019, noted to be among the world's worst, is further complicated by recent military conflict that has displaced thousands. The Lebanese Parliament has approved a $250 million World Bank loan for infrastructure reconstruction, expected to attract an additional $75 million from France.
However, Sayed described the current funding as insufficient. The Council for Development and Reconstruction is assessing damaged areas, focusing on regions accessible to the Lebanese army, amidst ongoing Israeli occupation. Major reconstruction is projected to start in 2026, contingent on local destruction levels and security stability.




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