THE Brazilian Air Force’s KC-30 aircraft landed at Guarulhos Airport around 10 a.m. on Sunday, marking the successful completion of the first mission to rescue Brazilians from Lebanon.
As soon as it landed, the plane took off again to retrieve more passengers and deliver medical supplies, with the next group expected to arrive on Tuesday.
According to local news, one of the passengers, Salim Calaun, couldn’t hold back his tears as he arrived:
“It feels like I’ve escaped hell and entered paradise.”
President Lula welcomed the group, saying,
“I hope you find the happiness in Brazil that was taken from you by these bombings.”
The Lebanese Consul-General in São Paulo, Rudy El Azzi, added,
“Brazil is not only giant by nature but also by its heart and hospitality,” according to local news.
The Foreign Ministry estimates 21,000 Brazilians live in Lebanon, and 3,000 have expressed interest in leaving. The FAB’s “Operation Raízes do Cedro” plans two flights per week to rescue about 500 people per mission, with medical teams onboard.
In addition, the Brazilian government sent 20,000 syringes and 4,000 needles to Lebanon to support medical care amidst the conflict. The supplies were flown on Sunday’s second repatriation flight and will assist medical efforts, following a request from Lebanon’s embassy in Brazil.
The Brazilian government plans more rescue missions and medical aid deliveries to Lebanon in the coming days, ensuring that those affected by the conflict receive both support and a safe return home.
