US Approves $95 Million Military Aid to Lebanon’s Armed Forces
The US has approved $95 million in military aid to Lebanon’s Armed Forces, redirecting funds initially meant for Egypt. This decision highlights shifts in Lebanon’s political dynamics post-conflict with Israel, particularly with Joseph Aoun’s presidency and mounting pressures on Hezbollah. The US aims to bolster its influence in the region by addressing Hezbollah’s power while emphasizing Lebanon’s sovereignty.
The United States has approved $95 million in military aid to Lebanon’s Armed Forces (LAF), an action confirmed by a State Department spokesperson. This decision is significant, as it represents one of the limited instances of foreign military assistance during the Trump administration, amidst a 90-day funding pause instituted for most countries, with special exceptions for Israel and Egypt.
Originally allocated for Egypt, the funds were redirected by the Joe Biden administration to support Lebanon’s military amidst a shifting political landscape following the October 2023 Hamas-led attacks on Israel. The ensuing conflict saw Hezbollah beginning retaliatory actions against Israel, which led to a significant response from the Israeli military.
The political situation in Lebanon has changed markedly with the election of Joseph Aoun as president in January. His election was facilitated by US influence, which included promises of funding for reconstruction from Saudi Arabia, against the backdrop of opposition from Hezbollah. Aoun appointed Nawaf Salam as prime minister, highlighting the Sunni political influence in a government facing Hezbollah’s substantial societal support, particularly from the impoverished Shia community.
Despite Hezbollah’s long-standing dominance, increased governmental pressure has emerged, including an indefinite suspension of flights to Iran and recent clashes with security forces. Furthermore, Lebanese security recently seized $2.5 million intended for Hezbollah. The new government also plans to seek an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout, reversing Hezbollah’s longstanding opposition to such a move.
US involvement in Lebanon is being reshaped, aiming to assert influence over Hezbollah’s power. US deputy special envoy Morgan Ortagus remarked on Hezbollah’s prior defeats by Israel, a sentiment reflecting the changing dynamics post-conflict. The LAF is now operational in regions of southern Lebanon previously under Hezbollah’s control, yet Israeli troops remain stationed in defiance of withdrawal agreements.
Both the US and France have sought to facilitate Israel’s retreat from Lebanon through potential peacekeeping initiatives, with the Lebanese government firmly opposing any private security contractors. Lebanon has condemned Israel’s presence, claiming violations of its sovereignty and intends to escalate the matter to the United Nations.
In summary, the United States’ approval of $95 million in military assistance to Lebanon signals a strategic shift in the region’s balance of power following recent conflicts. The political landscape has evolved with Joseph Aoun’s presidency and rising governmental pressures on Hezbollah. The US’s growing influence aims to counter Hezbollah’s control, emphasizing the need for Lebanese sovereignty amidst external interventions. Overall, these developments highlight a precarious interplay of military, political, and humanitarian challenges in Lebanon.
Original Source: ifpnews.com
