The Trump administration allocated $95 million in military aid to Lebanon, redirected from Egypt, as a strategic move against Hezbollah. The aid reflects shifting dynamics following Israel’s conflict with Gaza and the election of Joseph Aoun as president. The Lebanese government is asserting authority against Hezbollah amid ongoing economic crises and Israeli military presence in the region.
The Trump administration has approved $95 million in military aid to Lebanon, signaling progress against Hezbollah. This funding, confirmed by a State Department spokesperson, is notable as it marks a rare instance of foreign military assistance through this administration. Previously, in January, the State Department paused nearly all aid, allowing exceptions only for Israel and Egypt, while cutting funding to Ukraine amid ongoing tensions with Kyiv.
This military aid was originally allocated to Egypt, but was redirected by the Biden administration to support the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). This redirection underscores a shift in Lebanon’s power dynamics since the onset of Israel’s conflict with Gaza, triggered by the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. Following these events, Hezbollah began its counter-offensive against Israel, but faced significant military retaliation.
In January, the election of former army chief Joseph Aoun as president occurred after prolonged stagnation in Lebanon. His election was previously facilitated by the US through promises of funding from Saudi Arabia for reconstruction, despite his opposition from Hezbollah and Iran. Aoun appointed Nawaf Salam, a notable Sunni figure, as prime minister.
Despite Hezbollah’s persistent support, especially among the impoverished Shia populace, the new government appears to be asserting pressure on the group. Notably, in February, the government suspended all flights to Iran, resulting in confrontations where Lebanese forces utilized tear gas against Hezbollah supporters.
Additionally, security forces at Beirut’s airport seized $2.5 million in cash intended for Hezbollah from a Turkish national. The new government has also signaled intentions to seek an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout, a move previously resisted by Hezbollah amidst Lebanon’s economic collapse that began in 2019, with currency devaluation leading to widespread poverty.
The US’s stance as an emerging dominant influence in Lebanon, juxtaposed with its longstanding challenges in curbing Hezbollah’s power, has become more evident. US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, remarked on Hezbollah’s defeat by Israel during a meeting in Beirut, indicating a significant shift in US commentary regarding the group.
The LAF has taken control over significant areas of southern Lebanon, while Israel persists in maintaining military presence at key strategic points, despite calls for withdrawal. France and the US are exploring potential peacekeeping deployments, though Aoun has rejected the presence of private security contractors as per Israeli proposals. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s government is preparing to escalate its complaints regarding Israeli sovereignty violations to the United Nations.
The Trump administration has approved $95 million in military aid to Lebanon, highlighting a shift in US-Lebanon relations, particularly against Hezbollah. Former army chief Joseph Aoun’s election, supported by the US, marks a potential change in Lebanon’s governance amidst economic turmoil. The new government’s assertiveness against Hezbollah suggests evolving political dynamics in Lebanon, despite ongoing challenges and external threats from Israel. This situation illustrates the complex interplay of power, governance, and international relations in the region.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
