MI Congressional Delegation urges Biden administration to take immediate action

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 24, 2024 — In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, state Rep. Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn) is working closely with key members of the Michigan congressional delegation to advocate for urgent relief measures.

Farhat, in partnership with U.S. Reps. Haley Stevens (D-11), Debbie Dingell (D-06), Dan Kildee (D-08), Elissa Slotkin (D-07), Shri Thanedar (D-13), and Hilary Scholten (D-03), has spearheaded a formal request to the Biden administration, urging the establishment of a humanitarian parole program for Lebanese civilians fleeing violence and instability.

A letter co-signed by the aforementioned members of Congress has been sent to President Biden calling for immediate action. U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-12) sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security last week also calling for the roll out of humanitarian parole. This parole program would provide temporary refuge to individuals displaced by the conflict, addressing their urgent humanitarian needs and reuniting families.

“This conflict has caused immense hardship for the Lebanese community. People in my district fear for their loved ones in Lebanon,” Farhat said. “I am hopeful that this letter will encourage the Biden Administration to act swiftly to implement humanitarian parole and also secure a permanent ceasefire. We cannot stand by as innocent lives are lost.”

In their letter, the elected leaders recognized the administration’s recent steps to grant Deferred Enforced Departure and Temporary Protected Status to certain Lebanese nationals, as well as its allocation of $157 million in humanitarian aid for Lebanon. However, they stressed that more must be done. Citing successful humanitarian parole programs for Afghan and Ukrainian nationals, the letter emphasized the need to provide safe passage for civilians who have been impacted by war and violence.

“Humanitarian parole programs are crucial to reducing civilian casualties,” Farhat continued. “Parole can provide lifesaving relief and offer a legal pathway to safety for individuals fleeing conflict. We have seen how such programs have made a real difference, and now is the time for that compassion and support to be extended to Lebanese nationals.”

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