RAF C-17 Globemaster delivers rat packs and med kits to Lebanese Armed Forces
More than 12,500 ration packs and 79 battlefield medical kits have been delivered to Lebanon by the Royal Air Force.
The non-lethal package of medical supplies and provisions, delivered by a C-17 Globemaster III, will help support the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
The MOD pointed out that the LAF is essential to the future security and stability of Lebanon and the wider region as the only legitimate military force of the Lebanese state.
For more than a decade, the UK has given critical support to the LAF as a trusted partner, through training, mentoring and the provision of equipment.
Since 2009, the UK has trained more than 34,000 LAF personnel and dedicated more than £106m in funding.
Britain has also helped to construct nearly 80 border observation posts and Forward Operating Bases as part of efforts to support Lebanese border security.
The RAF delivery to Beirut was made as the Government continues to call for an immediate ceasefire and increase in humanitarian aid in both Lebanon and Gaza to allow space for a political solution.
Defence Secretary John Healey said: "The delivery of supplies from the RAF is in direct response to a request from the Lebanese Armed Forces.
"The UK has supported the LAF for more than a decade, as the sole legitimate force of the Lebanese state.
"Our support for the LAF can help build the foundations for a stable Lebanon, as part of our wider efforts towards de-escalation and peace in the region.
"We continue to work closely with our partners and allies in calling for an immediate ceasefire."
His comments were echoed by Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who said: "We continue to call for an immediate ceasefire between Lebanese Hezbollah and Israel and a political plan consistent with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
"That is the only way to restore security and stability for the people living on both sides of the border."
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