The Trump administration has approved $95 million in military aid to Lebanon, marking a significant shift in U.S. policy towards Hezbollah. The aid comes after political changes in Lebanon, with President Joseph Aoun elected amid economic turmoil. Hezbollah faces increasing pressure from a government seeking an IMF bailout, amid a backdrop of escalating tensions with Israel.
The Trump administration has authorized a waiver for $95 million in military assistance to Lebanon, highlighting the administration’s perceived progress in curtailing Hezbollah’s influence. This decision, confirmed by a State Department spokesperson, is one of the few instances of foreign military aid approved by the Trump administration, especially after a 90-day funding halt was placed on all aid except for Israel and Egypt. The funds, originally intended for Egypt, signify a strategic shift towards supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces.
This funding allocation comes amid significant political changes in Lebanon following the conflict in Gaza that began on October 7, 2023. In response to escalating tensions, Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel, but met with substantial military retaliation. Consequently, Lebanon’s political landscape has shifted since the election of President Joseph Aoun, a former army leader, under U.S. encouragement. Aoun selected Nawaf Salam, a member of a prominent Sunni family, as prime minister despite Hezbollah’s opposition.
While Hezbollah maintains substantial support among the Shia community in Lebanon, the dynamics are changing. Lebanon’s government has taken unusual steps, such as suspending flights to and from Iran and clashing with Hezbollah protesters. In a notable incident, Lebanese authorities seized $2.5 million intended for Hezbollah from a Turkish national at the airport. Additionally, the government plans to seek an IMF bailout, previously resisted by Hezbollah, amidst a severe economic crisis.
The U.S. now positions itself as an influential force in Lebanon, attempting to mitigate Hezbollah’s power after decades of failed efforts. Statements from U.S. officials indicate a shift in perspective, acknowledging Hezbollah’s recent military defeats. The Lebanese Armed Forces have started to regain control of areas in southern Lebanon previously dominated by Hezbollah, although Israel continues to maintain its military presence.
The shift in U.S. support for Lebanon has prompted discussions about potential peacekeeping force deployments, although President Aoun has firmly rejected the use of private contractors. As tensions remain high, Lebanon’s government plans to address these issues at the United Nations, asserting claims against Israel’s actions in Lebanon.
The approval of $95 million in U.S. military assistance to Lebanon reflects a strategic realignment concerning Hezbollah and the influence of the new Lebanese government. As Lebanon navigates a critical political and economic landscape, the U.S. appears to be positioning itself as a pivotal power in the region, seeking to counter Hezbollah’s longstanding dominance. This development marks a significant shift in U.S.-Lebanon relations amid ongoing pressures both domestically and internationally.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
