Angelina Jolie’s name has become synonymous with kindness, compassion, and action, making her one of the most admired Hollywood stars in Middle Eastern society. As a former Goodwill Ambassador and later Special Envoy for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Jolie has made a profound impact on the MENA region over the past two decades, constantly remaining present during times of crisis and using her influence to raise awareness of the region’s most pressing issues. Here is an overview of some of her most notable initiatives over the years.
Inspected the Rafah Crossing in Egypt (2026)
Jolie’s latest field mission was on the 2nd of January as she inspected the Egyptian side of the Rafah Crossing along the Gaza Strip as part of her humanitarian visit to Egypt. She spoke with members of the Red Crescent and truck drivers responsible for hauling supplies, stressing the importance of promptly delivering aid to Gaza.
Visited Injured Palestinians at Al-Mehwar Hospital, Egypt (2026)
On January 3rd, Jolie carried on with her visit to Egypt by meeting Palestinian refugees receiving treatment at Al Mehwar Hospital in 6th of October City. She emphasized the importance of worldwide cooperation to help refugees rebuild and praised the dedication of the medical staff to saving lives.
Met Displaced Families in Yemen (2022)
In 2022, Angelina visited Yemen to meet with internally displaced families as well as refugees and share their stories. The visit aimed to help draw attention to the catastrophic consequences of the civil war on the Yemenis. In line with International Women’s Day, Jolie witnessed the catastrophic impact this conflict has had on civilians, especially women, who were facing inequality and discrimination.
Visited the Streets of Mosul, Iraq (2018)
Angelina Jolie visited Mosul in northern Iraq in 2018, less than a year after its liberation from ISIS. She urged the international community to stand behind its residents as they rebuild their city. Jolie met with families trying to restore their homes and walked around the devastated streets of West Mosul in video footage by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), aiming to draw public attention to the disaster.
Met Syrian Refugee Families at Jordan’s Za’atari Camp (2018)
In 2018, Angelina Jolie visited Za’atari refugee camp in Jordan to meet families who were displaced by the Syrian war, marking her fifth visit to the city. Jolie underscored the intensity of the hardships and trauma among refugees on her social media and attended a UN-run community programme where she met families and teenage girls.
Visited Syrian Refugees in Lebanon (2014)
In 2014, Jolie landed in Lebanon to highlight the gravity of the situation for Syrian children. She visited families and orphaned children in the Bekaa Valley and highlighted the struggles they face, including the lack of access to education. On her three-day visit, she held talks with President Michel Sleiman and Prime Minister Tammam Salam to discuss the crisis and pay tribute to Lebanon for its efforts towards Syrian refugees.
By consistently being active during humanitarian crises in the Middle East and around the world, Jolie sat an example of compassion and dedication, utilizing her power and influence to make an impact. She has set the bar high for public figures and celebrities worldwide.
WE SAID THIS: Don’t Miss…Angelina Jolie Visits Syrian Refugee Camp in Jordan
