The U.S. has approved a $95 million military aid package for Lebanon’s armed forces despite an ongoing aid freeze. This exception aims to bolster the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) amid a transition in leadership and regional tensions. The aid emphasizes U.S. support for Lebanon’s stability and potential for future international assistance amid economic difficulties.
The U.S. government, under the Trump administration, has sanctioned a $95 million military assistance package for Lebanon’s armed forces, despite a general freeze on foreign aid. A spokesperson from the State Department confirmed that this exception was made to facilitate the transfer of these funds. The implementation will proceed in collaboration with the Department of Defense.
This aid package was notably one of former President Joe Biden’s final decisions, aimed at strengthening the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) are tasked with deploying to areas that were previously held by Israeli forces, though concerns regarding their capability prompted Israel to delay its withdrawal from southern Lebanon initially.
President Trump instituted a freeze on foreign aid for 90 days for a comprehensive review of commitments. On January 24, Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended this freeze to all countries except Israel and Egypt, which included the LAF’s funding.
The LAF has received significant U.S. assistance over the years. In January 2023, for instance, the U.S. redirected $72 million for LAF employees’ salaries. Despite Lebanon’s broader governmental instability, the LAF has maintained a positive relationship with the U.S. However, it had been affected by the recent aid freeze until the recent exception was announced.
Firas Maksad, a managing director at Eurasia Group, remarked that this exception reflects a “vote of confidence from the U.S.” in Lebanon’s evolving political landscape. He noted that under the ceasefire, the LAF will need to recruit approximately 6,000 soldiers to strengthen its position against Hezbollah and maintain the ceasefire’s integrity.
Hezbollah’s power has waned following its conflict with Israel, particularly with a new government in Lebanon led by President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who advocate for political reform. Nonetheless, the LAF continues to grapple with significant challenges, including financial deficits and personnel shortages, necessitating external support.
With Lebanon’s economy in dire straits following years of crisis and war damage estimated at $8.5 billion, international assistance is crucial. The recent approval of military aid from the U.S. may convey a supportive signal to other potential donors, including Saudi Arabia, that engaging with Lebanon can yield positive outcomes. The aid thus has implications beyond immediate military support, hinting at broader international investment potential in Lebanon’s recovery.
The recent U.S. approval of $95 million in aid to Lebanon’s military represents a strategic exception amid a broader foreign aid freeze. This decision underscores the U.S. commitment to supporting Lebanon during a critical transition period and reinforces the role of the LAF in maintaining stability in the region. As Lebanon navigates significant economic challenges, this aid highlights the potential for renewed international support for the country’s recovery efforts.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
