Israel’s Occupation of Southern Lebanon: U.S. Aid and Geopolitical Implications

Israeli forces are expected to maintain their occupation in southern Lebanon for weeks or months, depending on the stabilization of the region by the Lebanese army against Hezbollah. The U.S. has reinstated $95 million in military aid to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces and limit Hezbollah’s reach, amid ongoing tensions regarding Iranian funds and public protests.

A report from Axios details a tacit agreement involving the United States and Israeli officials, indicating that Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon may persist for several weeks or months. After the conclusion of the recent conflict in Lebanon last November, Israel has maintained five military positions several hundred meters inside Lebanese territory. According to the report, Israel intends to uphold this occupation until the Lebanese army successfully stabilizes the region and neutralizes the threat posed by Hezbollah.

The announcement follows the U.S. State Department’s decision to reinstate $95 million in military assistance to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), which had been previously withheld during President Trump’s 90-day freeze on foreign aid. U.S. officials confirmed that the funding aims to bolster American influence within the LAF and to curb Hezbollah’s strength, thereby ensuring that resistance to Israel remains dormant.

Furthermore, the article highlights concerns regarding commercial flights from Iran to Lebanon, which were denied landing to prevent the transfer of suspected cash to Hezbollah. Iranian funds are reportedly intended for reconstruction efforts in Lebanon following extensive damage incurred during Israel’s two-month bombing campaign, which resulted in significant casualties and devastation in southern Lebanon.

In light of these tensions, pro-Hezbollah demonstrators obstructed access to Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, prompting the Lebanese army to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowd. A U.S. official noted the incident as a critical test for the Lebanese army. Additionally, following U.S. pressure, General Joseph Aoun was appointed as the new Lebanese president earlier this year.

In summary, the situation in southern Lebanon continues to be precarious, with Israeli forces remaining in key positions until the threat from Hezbollah is mitigated. The U.S. aid aims to enhance the capabilities of the Lebanese Armed Forces while simultaneously undermining Hezbollah’s influence. Furthermore, the Lebanese army faces challenges in managing public protests amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Original Source: thecradle.co