The Trump administration approved $95 million in military aid to Lebanon to address Hezbollah’s influence. This waiver underscores a shift in Lebanon’s political landscape following the election of Joseph Aoun as president, amidst ongoing economic challenges. The U.S. is asserting its role in Lebanon as Hezbollah faces mounting pressure from the new government, which plans to seek assistance from the IMF.
The Trump administration has authorized a $95 million waiver in military assistance to Lebanon, indicating progress against Hezbollah. This approval, confirmed by a State Department spokesperson, is a notable instance of foreign military aid during the Trump era. Notably, the State Department previously halted funding for all aid, except for Israel and Egypt, and funding for Ukraine was cut due to tensions with Kyiv.
Originally designated for Egypt, this funding was redirected to support the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) by the Biden administration. This shift in funding highlights a significant alteration in Lebanon’s power dynamics following Israel’s military actions post the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, which incited Hezbollah to retaliate against Israel, though it faced severe repercussions.
Amid this turmoil, Joseph Aoun was appointed president in January, supported by U.S. diplomatic efforts that promised reconstruction funding from Saudi Arabia. His election faced opposition from Hezbollah and Iran. Aoun selected Nawaf Salam, from a notable Sunni family, as prime minister, as a coalition against Hezbollah formed.
Despite Hezbollah’s considerable grassroots support, especially among the impoverished Shia community, it is experiencing unprecedented pressures. Lebanon’s government has suspended all flights to Iran, leading to confrontations with Hezbollah supporters. There was also a significant cash seizure destined for Hezbollah at Beirut’s airport, indicating the government’s tightening grip.
Additionally, Lebanon’s government plans to seek assistance from the IMF, a move opposed by Hezbollah, as the nation grapples with economic devastation following a 98% currency devaluation in 2019, pushing many into poverty. The United States perceives itself as a strengthening power in Lebanon, countering Hezbollah after consecutive failures.
US Deputy Special Envoy Morgan Ortagus noted, “Hezbollah was defeated by Israel, and we are grateful to our ally Israel for defeating Hezbollah,” signaling a dramatic shift in U.S.-Lebanon relations and attitudes toward Hezbollah. The LAF’s deployment in areas previously held by Hezbollah underscores this shift, yet Israel remains entrenched in southern Lebanon, contrary to withdrawal expectations, complicating the region’s stability efforts.
In conclusion, the recent approval of $95 million in military aid to Lebanon reflects a strategic move by the Trump administration amid escalating tensions involving Hezbollah. The shifting political landscape in Lebanon, culminating in the election of Joseph Aoun, has prompted greater U.S. involvement and a reconsideration of strategies aimed at countering Hezbollah’s influence. The ongoing socio-economic crisis complicates these dynamics, as Lebanon’s government navigates alliances and international aid while coping with domestic challenges.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
