Trump Administration Approves $95 Million Military Aid to Lebanon
The Trump administration has approved $95 million in military aid to Lebanon, diverting funds originally intended for Egypt. This decision illustrates diplomatic shifts in response to Hezbollah’s actions following recent conflicts. Joseph Aoun’s election as President reflects U.S. support against Hezbollah, while Lebanon’s new government navigates financial aid and struggles for stability amid rampant poverty.
The Trump administration has authorized a $95 million military assistance package for Lebanon, indicating progress against Hezbollah, as confirmed by a State Department spokesperson. This approval is notable given the previous funding pause amid measured foreign military aid distribution, which had primarily benefitted Israel and Egypt.
Initially intended for Egypt, these funds were redirected to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) by the Biden administration. This funding allocation reflects the shifting power dynamics in Lebanon, particularly following the conflict instigated by Hamas’s attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. Hezbollah’s subsequent military response has led to severe repercussions at the hands of Israel.
Following years of political stagnation, Joseph Aoun, formerly the army chief, was elected President in January with U.S. support, promising funding for Lebanon’s reconstruction. Aoun opposed Hezbollah and is strategically aligned with Saudi Arabia, appointing Nawaf Salam, from a prominent Sunni family, as Prime Minister.
Despite Hezbollah’s entrenched support among Lebanon’s impoverished Shia community, pressures from the nascent government challenge its authority. This is illustrated by the suspension of flights to Iran and recent actions taken against Hezbollah’s financial transactions, demonstrating a shrinking operational space for the organization.
Lebanon’s government plans to seek assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), a step long resisted by Hezbollah. The country’s economy, devastated since its currency’s 98% decline in 2019, has left a significant portion of the population in poverty.
The U.S. appears to view itself as a burgeoning influence in Lebanon, aiming to counter Hezbollah’s power. Morgan Ortagus, the U.S. deputy special envoy for the Middle East, expressed gratitude towards Israel for its perceived success against Hezbollah, a sentiment that marks a dramatic shift in rhetoric.
The LAF is now active in regions once dominated by Hezbollah, although Israel continues to maintain strategic military positions. The Lebanese government has responded to this presence by voicing concerns over sovereignty violations and intends to address the issue through the United Nations. Subsequently, France and the U.S. have proposed potential peacekeeping alternatives, though Aoun has expressly rejected the notion of private security contractors to control these strategic areas.
In conclusion, the approval of $95 million in military aid to Lebanon by the Trump administration signals a significant shift in international dynamics concerning Hezbollah’s influence. The election of Joseph Aoun as President underscores U.S. efforts to counter Hezbollah, while Lebanon’s government pursues financial stability through the IMF. The region remains volatile, evidenced by the ongoing tensions with Israel and the challenges faced by Hezbollah amidst these political and military developments.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
