Beirut — Qatar has pledged to support Lebanon in addressing its prolonged economic and energy crises, emphasizing cooperation to rehabilitate the country’s electricity sector and assist in broader reconstruction efforts. The announcement came during a visit by Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani to Beirut on Friday, where he met with Lebanese counterparts including Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, President Michel Aoun, and parliamentary speaker.
The Qatari leader outlined plans for Qatar to provide financial and technical assistance aimed at reviving Lebanon’s failing electricity infrastructure, a sector long plagued by outdated equipment, an expanded workforce, and accumulated debt exceeding $40 billion. Lebanon’s state electricity company currently supplies only limited hours of power daily, exacerbating an already severe energy crisis linked to the country’s deep economic downturn that began in 2019.
A key component of the Qatar-Lebanon cooperation involves a joint initiative between QatarEnergy and French firm TotalEnergies to develop a solar power plant in Lebanon, representing an initial step toward broader investment initiatives expected to benefit both the Lebanese economy and participating Qatari entities. Prime Minister Salam indicated that detailed plans would soon be presented to Lebanon’s Cabinet, stressing that Qatar’s support would come without imposing financial burdens on the Lebanese state.
In addition to energy sector assistance, Qatar reiterated its commitment to backing the Lebanese Armed Forces as a national institution vital for maintaining security and stability. Qatar has provided tens of millions of dollars in military aid since Lebanon’s economic crisis worsened, underlining its ongoing role as a regional mediator amid domestic and geopolitical challenges.
During discussions, the Qatari delegation also addressed the situation in southern Lebanon, a region severely affected by recent hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The most recent conflict began in early March when Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel shortly after U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran. Israel subsequently captured numerous villages and towns in southern Lebanon and has conducted extensive demolitions in occupied areas. Sheikh Mohammed called for Israel to withdraw and halt attacks, emphasizing Qatar’s efforts in coordination with the United States to support future reconstruction endeavors that would enable displaced residents—estimated at over 300,000—to return home following a ceasefire in June.
The Qatari visit reflects a strategic initiative to foster recovery in Lebanon through energy investment and infrastructure development, while also engaging in diplomatic efforts to stabilize the security situation in the south. Discussions highlighted the complex interplay of economic recovery, regional security, and international cooperation in a country facing multifaceted crises.