IFAW is actively monitoring the escalating conflict in the Middle East, focusing on maintaining support for its operations in Lebanon amid increasingly dangerous conditions. Despite the challenges, their partners remain safe and committed to their work. IFAW’s President, Azzedine Downes, emphasized the critical concern for staff safety and the organization’s efforts to continue funding operations as circumstances allow. The organization is also addressing urgent needs related to pet evacuation, providing guidance and working with veterinary authorities to secure emergency exemptions so pets can stay with their families during evacuations, while adhering to strict animal health regulations.

To assist those needing to evacuate with pets, IFAW offers specific resources for Lebanon, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, including contact details for local animal welfare groups and government agencies responsible for pet travel permits. They urge pet owners not to leave their animals behind and to ensure pets are travel-ready. IFAW remains committed to supporting affected communities and will continue updating the public as the situation develops.