In his speech at the climate conference "COP28" in the UAE, caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati stated that he could not stand "here today as a representative of Lebanon without addressing the urgent need to enhance our national resilience, especially in areas where the challenges posed by climate change intersect with wars. Lebanon is facing Israeli aggression targeting both people and land, resulting in severe environmental degradation due to ongoing Israeli hostilities."
He pointed out that "the continuous violations, including the use of prohibited weapons such as white phosphorus, have led to civilian casualties and irreparable damage to over five million square meters of forests and agricultural land, as well as thousands of olive trees, resulting in the destruction of livelihoods and sources of income, and the displacement of tens of thousands of Lebanese."
Mikati added, "It is imperative that we recognize the dire consequences of wars and military assaults on the environment, and it is crucial to address them within international laws and humanitarian law. I would like to remind you that the presidency of the United Nations climate change conference (COP28) has committed to enhancing the resilience to climate change in areas affected by wars, crises, and displacement."
He expressed that "the announcement by UAE President Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan to establish a $30 billion fund for global climate solutions is essential not only to mitigate direct impacts, losses, and damages but also to strengthen strategies for resilience and adaptation to climate change. It is necessary to expand the scope of financing mechanisms to address the increasing challenges of losses and damages and to include rebuilding a sustainable green economy in Lebanon."
Mikati clarified that "our energy sector has suffered due to successive crises, and it is vital to revitalize it and ensure sufficient funding to modernize and enhance the shift to clean and renewable energy sources, thereby alleviating the negative impacts of climate change."
He continued, "While we engage in crucial discussions regarding global assessments, adaptation, mitigation, resilience, and financing, I urge all of you to transcend our differences and cooperate for the benefit of everyone and to ensure a better life for future generations. The world expects a lot from us, from the work we will do here, and the decisions we will make today. Let us leave the United Nations climate conference in the United Arab Emirates (COP28) with tangible actions and firm commitments to pave the way for a sustainable future for all."
