The United Nations has suspended the provision of all cash assistance to Syrian refugees in Lebanon for the next month, according to a joint statement by UN representatives issued Saturday. The announced suspension applies to all cash assistance, regardless of the currency in which it is distributed.

On Friday, caretaker Social Affairs Minister Hector Hajjar called for a reversal of the UN refugee agency’s recent move to grant US dollar cash aid to Syrian refugees in Lebanon, which he afffirmed a mistaken decision and a crime against Lebanon.

“We were not consulted on this matter, even though we are the concerned ministry,” Hajjar said.

In their statement, the UN representatives claimed, “As a result of a series of meetings held yesterday with the caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and … Hajjar, and at their request, the decision was taken to suspend the provision of cash assistance to refugees, in both currencies, for next month. T

“Discussions are ongoing regarding a suitable mechanism that could be put into place,” the UN representatives added.

“All implementation decisions are taken with full transparency and in accordance with the United Nations’ commitment to its humanitarian mission,” the statement said.

“These decisions include those related to aid programs and their approaches, which are based on solid, objective facts and research. This is all inclusive, and we continue to stand with the people of Lebanon and its government in these difficult times and to promote a collaborative environment in serving those most in need of assistance, including refugees,” the statement concluded.

Hajjar also called Friday for the refugees to receive the payment of aid upon their return to Syria, to encourage such returns.

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