US Approves $95 Million in Military Aid to Lebanon Amid Geopolitical Shifts

The United States has approved $95 million in military aid to Lebanon’s Armed Forces, highlighting a shift in geopolitical dynamics. The aid, originally earmarked for Egypt, is part of efforts to curtail Hezbollah’s influence amid Lebanon’s ongoing economic crisis and new political leadership under President Joseph Aoun.

The United States has sanctioned $95 million in military aid to Lebanon’s Armed Forces, confirmed by a State Department spokesperson. This marks one of the rare instances of foreign military assistance during the Trump administration. In January, the State Department had paused all aid except for Israel and Egypt, with recent funding cut for Ukraine due to ongoing conflicts.

Originally allocated for Egypt, the funds were redirected to Lebanon under President Joe Biden’s administration. This support highlights the ongoing shift in Lebanon’s power dynamics, particularly after the escalation of conflict involving Israel and Hamas following the attacks on October 7, 2023. Hezbollah, in response, began assaults on occupied territories but faced significant retaliation from Israel.

The political landscape in Lebanon has seen change with the election of former army chief Joseph Aoun as president, supported by the US. Aoun selected Nawaf Salam, from a notable Sunni family, as prime minister. Despite Hezbollah’s historical support within Lebanon’s Shia community, the new government has initiated actions against it, including halting flights to Iran and confiscating large sums of cash linked to the group.

Lebanon’s government has previously resisted seeking assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), but the recent economic collapse has prompted reconsideration. Lebanon’s economy deteriorated significantly, with a currency devaluation of 98 percent since 2019, pushing most citizens into poverty.

The American stance indicates a strategic shift in foreign relations, marking an attempt to marginalize Hezbollah’s influence. US Deputy Special Envoy to the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, expressed gratitude towards Israel for successfully countering Hezbollah. Such sentiments from US officials signify a notable shift in policy.

The Lebanese Armed Forces have progressively seized areas in southern Lebanon previously controlled by Hezbollah. Despite this, Israel continues to maintain military presence in key regions. Diplomatic efforts involve the US and France negotiating for Israel’s complete withdrawal from Lebanon, although President Aoun firmly opposed private contractors in such roles. Moreover, Lebanon has signified intentions to raise its sovereignty concerns at the United Nations due to Israeli violations.

In summary, the United States has allocated $95 million in military aid to Lebanon, shifting geopolitical dynamics after a prolonged period of conflict involving Hezbollah. Joseph Aoun’s election as president and the new government’s stance against Hezbollah reflect a changing political landscape. Lebanon’s financial crises and the reconsideration of aid from the IMF underline urgent economic needs, while US support suggests a commitment to reducing Hezbollah’s influence in the region.

Original Source: ifpnews.com