Brussels, 16/03/2026 (Agence Europe) – On Monday 16 March, the European Commission confirmed a humanitarian aid package worth €458 million for Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Egypt in 2026. This funding comes at a time when several international donors are withdrawing from the Middle East, which is still shaken by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the war in Iran. Syria will receive the largest share, with €210 million, followed by Palestine, with 124 million. €100 million is earmarked for Lebanon, while Jordan and Egypt will receive 15.5 and 8 million respectively. The funds will be invested in food aid, housing, healthcare and education. “In a war-torn Middle East, the European Union is stepping up while others step back”, said Hadja Lahbib, Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, adding that the EU will continue to provide support “for as long as it is needed”. (JM)