In a significant shift in US foreign aid priorities, the United States has decided to reroute $95 million in military assistance originally intended for Egypt to Lebanon, in a move designed to bolster the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). This redirection of funds comes at a crucial time, as Lebanon faces ongoing tensions with Hezbollah and works to enforce a fragile ceasefire agreement with Israel.
The decision, confirmed by US officials, forms part of a larger strategy aimed at strengthening Lebanon’s ability to assert state control, particularly in southern regions where Hezbollah maintains a significant presence. The redirection is seen as part of an effort to ensure the LAF has the resources it needs to maintain security in areas recently vacated by Israeli forces, following the November 2024 Israel-Lebanon ceasefire.
According to sources, the $95 million in aid is part of a broader $400 million package intended to support Lebanon in its battle for territorial integrity, countering Hezbollah’s dominance. This aid comes as the Lebanese forces step up their deployment in southern Lebanon, where they are tasked with taking control of territories and weapons depots previously controlled by Hezbollah.
The US State Department has described the LAF as a “key partner” in maintaining stability in the region, particularly in efforts to prevent Hezbollah from escalating tensions with Israel. In addition, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasised the necessity of continued support for Lebanon’s “legitimate security institutions” during recent talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan.
However, not everyone views this shift in military aid positively. Critics argue that the LAF has not yet demonstrated enough capability in countering Hezbollah’s influence over Lebanon’s governance. Despite receiving previous aid, including a $25 million donation to enhance its maritime capabilities in 2024, many question the LAF’s ability to sufficiently limit Hezbollah’s power in Lebanon’s political sphere.
This redirection of military funds comes in the wake of increasing pressure from US Congress over Egypt’s human rights record, including recent mass political arrests. Despite these concerns, Washington went ahead with a full $1.3 billion military aid package for Egypt in September 2024. The shift in funds to Lebanon also underscores the changing priorities in US foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East, as Lebanon’s security situation becomes more precarious.
The US’s ongoing support for Lebanon, particularly in the form of military aid, has sparked debates about the nature of Lebanon’s relationship with the US. Critics argue that this reliance on American support has fostered a one-sided relationship, where Lebanon is seen as aligning with US interests, including participating in controversial foreign activities on Lebanese soil.
As tensions continue to rise in the region, Lebanon’s ability to consolidate control over areas previously held by Hezbollah will be crucial for maintaining stability. The shift in US military aid could be pivotal in determining whether the LAF can rise to the challenge.
