Dhaka, Dec 13 (V7N)- Another 85 Bangladeshis have returned home from war-ravaged Lebanon, as part of the government's ongoing efforts to repatriate its citizens. They arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 7:21 am on Friday aboard Ethiopian Airlines flight ET-0680, according to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This latest group brings the total number of repatriated Bangladeshis from Lebanon to 1,048 across sixteen flights. The initiative is fully funded by the government to ensure the safe return of its nationals amid escalating unrest in the region.

Upon arrival, officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) were present to receive the returnees. Each individual was provided with 5,000 taka in pocket money, basic food supplies, and primary medical assistance by IOM.

The release also mentioned that ministry officials engaged with the returnees at the airport to learn about their experiences during the conflict and their current needs. Tragically, one Bangladeshi is reported to have died in a bomb attack in Lebanon.

The government has reiterated its commitment to bringing back all Bangladeshis wishing to leave Lebanon due to the ongoing turmoil. The Bangladesh Embassy in Beirut continues to coordinate the safe repatriation of willing nationals while ensuring the safety of those who choose to stay.

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