Lebanon’s President Seeks to Reactivate Saudi Military Aid During Upcoming Visit

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun plans to request Saudi Arabia to revive a $3-billion aid package to the Lebanese Army during his visit to the kingdom. This comes after the grant was suspended in 2016 following political tensions. Aoun aims to strengthen ties and ensure necessary financial reforms are implemented for reconstruction aid.

BEIRUT (Reuters) – During a forthcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon is poised to request the reactivation of a $3-billion aid package intended for the Lebanese Army. This announcement was made in an interview with Asharq television that aired on Friday.

Aoun, previously the head of Lebanon’s Army before his presidential election on January 9, will have his first international engagement with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman next Monday. In his remarks, Aoun expressed the hope of inquiring if there is a possibility to resume the grant, which was suspended in 2016 following Lebanon’s failure to denounce attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran.

Historically, Saudi Arabia has invested billions in Lebanon, contributing to the reconstruction of southern regions post the 2006 Hezbollah-Israel conflict and supporting various political figures. However, rising Iranian influences have strengthened Hezbollah’s position within the Middle East, complicating the dynamics between Lebanon and the Kingdom.

Recent months have witnessed considerable political changes in the region, especially with Israel’s military actions against Hezbollah last year and the fall of Bashar al-Assad in December. President Aoun articulated his aspiration that Saudi Arabia, particularly through the Crown Prince, would mend relations to benefit both nations and enhance economic and political collaboration.

Lebanon is presently grappling with a substantial reconstruction requirement after enduring a year of aggressive Israeli airstrikes. However, Lebanese officials note that any foreign assistance, including contributions from Gulf nations, relies on Lebanon executing necessary financial reforms. Aoun reassured that Lebanon remains dedicated to these reforms while seeking gradual reconstruction support to facilitate the return of displaced individuals from devastated southern villages.

In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia emphasizes a significant effort to reinstate the previously halted $3-billion military aid package. This action reflects Lebanon’s need for foreign backing amid pressing reconstruction challenges while underscoring the complexities of Lebanese-Saudi relations in the context of regional political shifts.

Original Source: www.usnews.com