A Canadian government official has denounced Israel’s recent military actions in Lebanon, describing them as an "unlawful invasion" and affirming Lebanon’s right to govern its own territory. Randeep Sarai, Canada’s Secretary of State for International Development, made the remarks during a visit to Lebanon aimed at announcing enhanced humanitarian aid to address the ongoing crisis resulting from the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
During his visit, Sarai highlighted the displacement of approximately 360,000 people within Lebanon, a figure cited by the United Nations, as a consequence of the recent hostilities. He emphasized Canada’s diplomatic efforts to halt the violence and facilitate the safe return of displaced Lebanese communities. While Canada maintains a critical stance toward Israel’s military operations in both Gaza and Lebanon, it also classifies Hezbollah as a terrorist organization and condemns its attacks on Israel.
As part of Canada’s support initiatives, Sarai unveiled three new aid programs targeting vulnerable families and women in Lebanon. This announcement raises Canada’s total assistance to the country in 2026 to over CAD 71 million (approximately $50.2 million). Over the past decade, Canada has provided Lebanon with about CAD 1.8 billion ($575 million) in aid, including nearly $38 million earlier this year for essential supplies like food and medical services. Sarai underscored Canada’s long-term commitment to Lebanon and its people, referencing visits to shelters for displaced persons and Syrian refugees during his stay.
Sarai also met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who assumed office last year with promises to restore state authority throughout Lebanon and implement anti-corruption reforms. Sarai expressed cautious optimism regarding these goals, noting the international community’s attention and support toward Lebanon’s government.
On the regional front, Sarai spoke on Canada’s efforts to foster a safer environment in Syria, facilitating the return of refugees by improving access to food, water, and education. Lebanon previously hosted around 1.5 million Syrian refugees, though about half a million have reportedly returned since the ousting of former Syrian President Bashar Assad in December 2024, according to Lebanon’s social affairs minister.
Separately, Lebanon continues to seek international backing for its military following its government’s commitment last year to disarm Hezbollah and assign this responsibility to the Lebanese army. On August 19, Lebanon announced receipt of an invitation from France to participate in a preparatory meeting ahead of an international conference on support for the Lebanese army. The conference, initially planned for March but delayed due to the broader Middle East conflict, is now scheduled to include representatives from multiple countries, governments, and international organizations.
The invitation, conveyed through French President Emmanuel Macron, was formally received by President Aoun. Lebanon’s presidency emphasized the crucial role of international cooperation in bolstering the army’s operational capabilities, including logistics, training, and capacity building, to enable it to effectively fulfill its national security duties.