The Trump administration has greenlit a $95 million military aid package for Lebanon’s armed forces, overriding a foreign aid freeze. This decision aims to strengthen the LAF’s role in maintaining peace between Hezbollah and Israel. Analysts view this as a vote of confidence in Lebanon’s political transitions and crucial for attracting further international support amidst ongoing economic challenges.
The Trump administration has authorized a $95 million military aid package for Lebanon’s armed forces, marking an exception to its freeze on foreign assistance. The U.S. State Department confirmed the approval, with ongoing collaboration with the Department of Defense to implement the transfer. The assistance aims to bolster Lebanon’s ability to maintain peace in the context of a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
This aid package is part of former President Joe Biden’s final efforts to stabilize the region and strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), particularly for their deployment in areas vacated by Israeli forces. Originally, Israeli withdrawal was postponed over concerns regarding LAF capabilities, but recent developments indicate a more favorable view toward LAF’s role.
Despite a 90-day freeze on all U.S. foreign assistance, including military support introduced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the LAF has historically received substantial aid. In January 2023, $72 million was redirected to the LAF, highlighting ongoing American support despite its government’s mixed relations with the U.S.
Analyst Firas Maksad viewed this aid exception as a significant affirmation of the emerging political stability in Lebanon. He emphasized that the LAF would need to mobilize additional personnel to maintain order in southern Lebanon, effectively countering Hezbollah’s influence and facilitating the ceasefire.
Lebanon’s ongoing economic struggle complicates the landscape. Recent leadership changes have provided a platform for political reform; however, the LAF faces financial and operational constraints. President Joseph Aoun’s government is engaging with regional partners, such as Saudi Arabia, to secure much-needed reconstruction funds following the devastating impacts of the recent conflict.
The U.S. aid transfer is a strategic move that not only bolsters Lebanon’s military efforts but also signals confidence to potential international partners regarding investments in the country’s recovery and stability amidst ongoing turmoil. It suggests that Lebanon, under the current administration, remains a viable partner worth supporting.
The recent approval of $95 million in U.S. military aid for Lebanon reflects a significant stride in support for the Lebanese Armed Forces during a period of political transition and economic crisis. This strategic exception from the foreign aid freeze underscores the importance of the LAF in maintaining regional stability, particularly in the context of the ceasefire with Israel. The assistance may also serve to attract further international support for Lebanon’s recovery efforts.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
