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Nathan Jeffay

ByNathan Jeffay, Nathan Jeffay

Analysis

‘We share their pain’: Israel rushes to offer Lebanon aid

Explosion could prompt a backlash in Lebanon against Israel’s arch-foe Hezbollah

August 6, 2020 10:01
The scene at Beirut port after a massive explosion rocked the capital on Tuesday, killing at least 100 people and wounding more than 4,000. The blast was heard as far away as Cyprus, over 160km away
3 min read

Leaders in Jerusalem had two responses to this week’s tragedy 350 miles away in Beirut. The first was to offer aid — and the second to fathom what it means for Israel’s security.

On Tuesday, soon after the explosions that killed more than 100 people, wounded more than 4,000 and left an estimated 300,000 homeless, Israel relayed an offer of help.

“Israel approached Lebanon through international defence and diplomatic channels to offer the Lebanese government medical humanitarian aid,” said Benny Gantz, Minister of Defence, and Gabi Ashkenazi, Foreign Minister, in a joint statement.

Meanwhile, Rambam Health Care Campus in Haifa, Ziv Medical Centre in Safed, and Sheba Medical Center in Ramat Gan all offered to receive wounded from Lebanon.