TEAR Fund Press Release

For Immediate Release: 01/08/06

48-hour airstrike respite reveals extent of Lebanon’s destruction

Relief organisation TEAR Fund New Zealand is reporting Israel’s suspension of airstrikes has revealed the full extent of destruction wrought upon Lebanon.

Israel partially suspended airtstrikes yesterday, following a devastating attack on a south Lebanese village that killed 57 civilians.

“Our partners on the ground report the pause has allowed them to move about to survey damage. The destruction is even worse than they originally thought; Beirut and large swathes of southern Lebanon lie in ruin,” says TEAR Fund Executive Director Stephen Tollestrup.

“Lebanon’s core infrastructure has been obliterated. It may take years for the nation to recover fully. In the meantime, it's innocent men, women and children who suffer.”

Working through local Lebanese relief organisations, TEAR Fund is providing refugees with emergency shelter and essential support, including food, water, hygiene-kits and medical care.

As many as 560 people have been killed in Lebanon. Fifty-one Israelis - mainly soldiers - have also been killed. Meanwhile, at least 700,000 Lebanese are now displaced, having fled the violence.

You can give to TEAR Fund’s emergency refugee appeal by calling 0800 800 777 or to make an instant $20 donation call 0900 90 777 or visit their website www.tearfund.org.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media