World Bank passes $250M project for Lebanon's post-war reconstruction
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The World Bank approves an initial $250 million to support Lebanon's reconstruction after the Israeli war on Lebanon, part of a $1 billion framework to restore critical infrastructure and services.
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A bulldozer closes a crater following Israeli airstrikes that targeted hilltops near Nabatieh town, south Lebanon, on May 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Mohammed Zaatari)
The World Bank announced on Wednesday the approval of a $250 million project to aid Lebanon's recovery following the Israeli war on the country. The initiative marks the first phase of a broader $1 billion framework to restore damaged infrastructure and essential services in conflict-affected areas.
According to the bank's statement, the financing will support urgent repair and reconstruction of critical public infrastructure, as well as the sustainable management of rubble. Jean-Christophe Carret, Director of the World Bank's Middle East Department, emphasized that the project is structured as a scalable initiative, with the potential to mobilize up to $1 billion.
The focus will be on repairing vital lifeline services in regions heavily impacted by the war, particularly in the South and East of Lebanon and in Beirut’s Southern Suburb. These areas suffered significant damage during the war, which escalated into a full-blown war in September and ended with a ceasefire in late November.
Lebanese government welcomes international support
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam praised the World Bank’s decision, calling it "a key step in reconstruction by responding to damage to critical infrastructure and essential services in war-affected areas."
Salam added that this support would enhance state-led recovery efforts and help attract additional international funding needed to rebuild the nation, stressing that the government has consistently appealed for foreign aid to support post-war recovery.
Read next: 'Lebanon's soul': The Israeli destruction of Lebanese heritage sites
The war caused widespread destruction across Lebanon, adding to the country's already dire economic conditions.
The World Bank previously estimated that Lebanon would require approximately $11 billion to recover and rebuild fully, but the newly approved funding is intended to catalyze broader international engagement and provide a structured pathway for long-term reconstruction.
