The U.S. has approved $95 million in military aid to Lebanon, redirected from Egypt, amidst a changing political atmosphere following the escalation of conflict in Gaza. Joseph Aoun’s election as president, backed by the U.S., marks a shift in Lebanon’s power dynamics with Hezbollah facing increased governmental pressure. The situation remains complex with ongoing Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon and potential IMF discussions for economic recovery.
The U.S. has approved $95 million in aid for Lebanon’s military, marking a significant development in foreign military support during the Trump administration. This decision, confirmed by a State Department spokesperson, comes despite a previous 90-day funding freeze on aid except for Israel and Egypt, coupled with recent cuts to Ukraine due to disagreements over the conflict approach.
Originally designated for Egypt, the aid was redirected by the Biden administration to support the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). This funding reflects the shifts in Lebanon’s power dynamics following the escalation of hostilities in Gaza since the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, which intensified Hezbollah’s military actions against Israel in solidarity with Palestinian civilians.
In Lebanon, a significant political shift occurred with the election of Joseph Aoun as president in January, as he was backed by the U.S. amid promises of reconstruction funding from Saudi Arabia. Aoun, a Maronite Christian, appointed Nawaf Salam, from a prominent Sunni family, as the prime minister despite Hezbollah’s opposition.
While Hezbollah maintains strong support among Lebanon’s Shia community, recent government actions, including the suspension of flights to Iran and police actions against Hezbollah supporters, signal growing governmental pressure. Additionally, Lebanon’s new administration plans to seek aid from the IMF, a move previously resisted by Hezbollah.
The U.S. now views itself as a vital external force in Lebanon’s political landscape, contrasting Hezbollah’s once-dominant position. For instance, U.S. Deputy Special Envoy Morgan Ortagus publicly expressed gratitude to Israel for defeating Hezbollah, a statement that reflects a significant shift in U.S. attitudes from the previous year.
The LAF has taken control of areas in southern Lebanon that Hezbollah used to dominate, while Israel continues to occupy key territories despite an agreed deadline for withdrawal. France and the U.S. are reportedly encouraging Israel to fully withdraw, potentially deploying peacekeeping forces, although Aoun firmly dismissed the idea of using private contractors. Lebanon’s government has pledged to escalate its grievances to the United Nations regarding Israel’s actions, which it views as violations of its sovereignty.
The recent U.S. approval of $95 million in military aid to Lebanon illustrates a shifting political landscape in Lebanon, following years of dominance by Hezbollah. The election of Joseph Aoun as president signals U.S. influence in Lebanese politics, especially in the context of rebuilding efforts and economic hardship. The complexities of U.S.-Lebanese relations continue to evolve, especially with Hezbollah facing unprecedented pressure from the new government.
Original Source: ifpnews.com
