The US State Department has authorized a $95 million military aid package for Lebanon’s Armed Forces, despite a freeze on foreign assistance instituted by President Trump. This funding aims to bolster the LAF as it plays a critical role in maintaining peace with Israel and addressing the country’s ongoing economic challenges.
The Trump administration has approved a significant $95 million military assistance package for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), notwithstanding a broader foreign aid freeze. A spokesperson from the US State Department confirmed this exception, stating efforts are underway to implement these funds.
This aid package is considered a strategic move aimed at strengthening the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, especially requiring the LAF to occupy areas previously controlled by Israel. Following Israel’s postponed military withdrawal and ongoing confidence concerns about the LAF, this funding is particularly timely.
The LAF, a long-time recipient of US aid, has maintained a supportive US relationship even amidst Lebanon’s political challenges. In January 2023, for example, the US redirected $72 million to address LAF salaries. The recent exception marks a shift amid prior funding setbacks due to the aid freeze initiated by Trump’s administration.
Expert Firas Maksad highlighted that this aid signifies US confidence in Lebanon’s evolving political landscape, aimed at boosting the LAF’s capacity. The funds are critical for enabling the LAF to deploy more soldiers in locations threatened by Hezbollah, thus reinforcing the ceasefire.
Lebanon’s military faces substantial challenges, including financial constraints and manpower shortages. As a result, the LAF is having to withdraw units vital for maintaining stability during a pivotal political transition. Support from the US is deemed essential during this tumultuous period.
Amid economic challenges that threaten political stability, President Aoun’s recent talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman likely focused on financial support. Lebanon is in dire need of resources for economic recovery, particularly following damages from the Hezbollah-Israel conflict, estimated at $8.5 billion by the World Bank.
The Trump administration’s approval of aid to the LAF signals to international partners, including Saudi Arabia, that investing in Lebanon holds promise. This assistance acts as a catalyst, encouraging further contributions from potential donors, bolstered by the endorsement from the Trump administration.
The US decision to allocate $95 million in military aid to Lebanon’s armed forces, despite a broader aid freeze, reflects strategic priorities aimed at stabilizing the region amidst political shifts. This funding boosts confidence in the LAF’s role in maintaining peace with Israel while underscoring the necessity of US support in addressing Lebanon’s broader economic and political issues. This assistance could also catalyze further international investment in Lebanon, signifying a crucial step toward addressing the country’s ongoing crises and promoting stability.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
