IMF Ready To Disburse Loans After Lebanon Breaks 2.5 Years Of Presidential Vacancy

South Lebanon's condition was affected by the Israeli military offensive. (UNICEF-Fouad Choufany)

JAKARTA - The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has stated that it is open to the request of the Lebanese Government to disburse new loan funds.

Fresh air for Lebanon to address the country's tough economic challenges, after the country elected a new president in January 2025. Military Commander Joseph Aoun sat on the presidency after the 2.5-year vacant position.

"Welcoming the authorities' request for a new program supported by the IMF to support their efforts to address the significant economic challenges of Lebanon," the IMF wrote in a statement, quoted from AFP, Friday, March 14.

In February 2025, the IMF said it was open to new loan agreements with Lebanon after discussions with the country's newly appointed finance minister.

The government previously did not impose the reforms requested by the IMF to implement loan packages to save the collapsed economy.

"The Lebanese economy is still very depressed, and poverty and unemployment have been very high since the 2019 crisis," said the head of the IMF delegation to Lebanon,tipel Ramirez Rigo.

According to the United Nations, the Lebanese economic crisis has put most of its population below the poverty line.

International donors including the IMF have asked Lebanese authorities to carry out major reforms, including restructuring the banking sector, to open funding.

"Compensive strategy for economic rehabilitation is critical to restoring growth, reducing unemployment, and increasing social conditions",tiplo said.

"The collapse of the banking sector continues to hamper economic activity and credit supply, with depositors unable to access their funds," he continued.