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Repatriation of Evacuees from Lebanon
Saturday, July 22, 2006 — As the violence in the Middle East continues, American citizens have been fleeing the country for safety. The recent outbreak of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah began after two Israeli soldiers were kidnapped in northern Israel on July 12. Today, as the conflict enters its tenth day, violence continues to escalate on both sides of the border.
The first plane carrying evacuees landed early Thursday morning at Baltimore-Washington International/Thurgood Marshall Airport. The 150 passengers aboard were evacuated by the U.S. Government from Lebanon to the island country of Cyprus by ship, helicopter and plane. They were later flown back to the United States via a government chartered aircraft. More flights are scheduled to arrive throughout the weekend in Philadelphia and Baltimore, bringing an estimated 3,000-4,000 evacuees back to the U.S.
Upon arrival at the airport, the evacuees were met by American Red Cross workers who distributed comfort kits containing hygiene items such as a washcloth and soap, toothbrush, toothpaste and other items. At the request of the federal government, the American Red Cross is working to provide evacuees with shelter, food, first aid and emergency communications. Child care, mental health counseling may also be provided if requested.
The American Red Cross is providing assistance in the Middle East by responding to appeals, or formal requests for support, issued by International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (Movement) partners and based on need. To date, appeals have only been issued for assistance in Lebanon. While the American Red Cross enjoys strong relations with the Magen David Adom in Israel and the Palestine Red Crescent Society, and has provided assistance to both societies in the past, neither Magen David Adom nor the Palestine Red Crescent Society has issued an appeal for assistance at this time.
The American Red Cross stands in solidarity with our National Society partners who are providing humanitarian aid overseas to those affected by this crisis. Red Cross services are carried out consistent with the Fundamental Principles of the Movement, including humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality.
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