The World Bank has approved a $250 million financing package for Lebanon aimed at repairing and reconstructing critical public infrastructure in areas affected by conflict. The Lebanon Emergency Assistance Project (LEAP) will focus on urgent repairs and sustainable management of rubble, with the goal of maximizing economic and social impact quickly.
A Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment estimated that the conflict from October 2023 to December 2024 caused $7.2 billion in direct damages across ten sectors, with reconstruction needs reaching $11 billion. Damage to vital infrastructure necessary for economic activity and community health was valued at $1.1 billion.
Jean-Christophe Carret, World Bank Middle East Division Director, stated: "Given Lebanon’s large reconstruction needs, the LEAP is structured as a US$1 billion scalable framework with an initial US$250 million contribution from the World Bank and the ability to efficiently absorb additional financing—whether grants or loans—under a unified, government-led implementation structure that emphasizes transparency, accountability, and results."
The project will address immediate recovery activities including rubble management to promote reuse and recycling. It will also support rapid repair of essential services such as water, energy, transport, health care, education, and municipal services. Reconstruction efforts will begin with designs and assessments funded by the initial World Bank financing.
LEAP employs a transparent methodology endorsed by Lebanon's Council of Ministers to prioritize investments in social services restoration and economic recovery in conflict-affected areas. The Lebanese government has implemented reforms within the Council for Development and Reconstruction (CDR) to ensure efficient project execution.
The Prime Minister's Office will provide strategic guidance for LEAP's implementation with coordination across ministries through the Council of Ministers. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport will lead project execution while the Ministry of Environment oversees environmental compliance.
The World Bank plans enhanced supervision measures including hiring an international engineering firm for compliance oversight across technical, environmental, fiduciary aspects along with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks.