US Approves $230 Million in Aid to Lebanon Amid Hezbollah Tensions
The Trump administration approved $230 million in funding for Lebanon's security forces shortly before the end of the US fiscal year. This aid is intended to support Lebanese authorities in their efforts to disarm Hezbollah, the prominent Lebanese political and military organization.
Purpose of the Funding
The conditioned aid aims to strengthen Lebanon's internal security capabilities. Specifically, the package includes $190 million for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and $40 million for the Internal Security Forces (ISF). This allocation allows the ISF to assume expanded internal security duties, freeing the LAF to focus on critical missions such as border oversight and protection of strategic sites.
- Strengthen Lebanese security forces.
- Support efforts to disarm Hezbollah.
- Enable LAF to focus on border security.
US Rationale and Regional Context
Disarming Hezbollah has long been a central tenet of US policy in the region, given the organization's challenge to American interests. A State Department spokesperson stated that the aid supports Lebanese forces in asserting Lebanese sovereignty and implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which they describe as the only viable framework for a durable security arrangement for both Lebanese and Israelis. The funding decision was made amid efforts to resolve conflicts, including the situation in Gaza, as well as promoting stability in the Middle East.
Lebanese Perspective and Ceasefire Agreements
Lebanese President Michel Aoun affirmed Lebanon’s commitment to the November 2024 deal, which involves consolidating weapons under state control. This move is crucial in upholding the ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel, brokered with US assistance following increased cross-border fighting sparked by the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas. Some, like Senator Lindsey Graham, emphasized the need for Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah regardless of Israeli actions.
Reactions and Future Implications
A Democratic congressional aide emphasized the significance of the funding for a small country like Lebanon. While this move reflects the Trump administration's focus on resolving regional conflicts and promoting peace, it also highlights the challenges facing the Lebanese government in balancing internal security concerns with regional stability. Ed Gabriel, president and CEO of the American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL), expressed optimism that the funds would enhance efforts to clear Hezbollah from south of the Litani River and expand operations to other regions.
