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JERUSALEM – Urgency Grows in U.S. Aid Debate for Lebanese Armed Forces
The alleged collaboration between the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and the Hezbollah terrorist organization has intensified discussions around U.S. military assistance to Lebanon. Analysts argue that the Trump administration should reconsider its substantial financial support to the LAF due to these associations.
According to Edy Cohen, a Lebanese-born Israeli scholar with expertise in Hezbollah, “Hezbollah and the Lebanese army are the same.” Cohen, affiliated with the Eitan Center, urged the Trump administration not to fund the Lebanese military, citing concerns over intelligence sharing between the LAF and Hezbollah regarding Israeli operations.
Reports highlighted by The London-based Times indicate that a high-ranking LAF official forwarded classified military information to Hezbollah. Specifically, Suhil Bahij Gharb, who manages military intelligence for southern Lebanon, accessed critical documents from a facility overseen by U.S., French, and UN forces.
U.S. Support for the LAF: A Growing Concern
On his inauguration day, President Donald Trump was briefed by the U.S. State Department about ongoing security cooperation with Lebanon. The department noted that, since 2006, over $3 billion in U.S. investment has transformed the LAF into a stabilizing force against various regional threats.
A senior official from the Trump administration remarked, “Since 2006, Hezbollah has not honored any agreements, but Lebanon may see a chance for a new future after Israel’s significant military actions against Hezbollah leadership.” This comment follows the election of General Joseph Aoun, commander of the LAF, as the new president of Lebanon.
Ceasefire Tensions Amidst Military Conflict
The discussions about the U.S.-LAF relationship occur within the broader context of a ceasefire arrangement between the U.S., Israel, and Lebanon, which has been extended until February 18. The agreement includes upcoming negotiations regarding the repatriation of Lebanese prisoners captured in the recent conflict.
Experts predict that Hezbollah seeks to disrupt this fragile ceasefire. Reports from the Associated Press revealed that recent clashes resulted in casualties, with two killed and 17 wounded due to Israeli military action. Hezbollah’s new leader, Naim Kassem, vocally opposed the ceasefire extension, placing blame on the Lebanese government for its complicity.
Domestic Strife and External Pressures
Kassem declared, “Israel must withdraw as the 60-day timeframe is over. Any delay in their withdrawal will be blamed on the U.N., U.S., France, and Israel.” This aggressive stance reflects the rising tensions in the region, underscoring Hezbollah’s role in escalating conflict and exerting control over southern Lebanese territories.
During an escalating confrontation, pro-Hezbollah residents in southern Lebanon challenged Israeli forces’ orders, resulting in significant casualties. Hezbollah has historically leveraged civilian populations to launch attacks against Israeli targets and to maintain its political dominance.
The Debate on U.S. Military Funding
As the debate over U.S. assistance to the LAF continues, experts like Walid Phares emphasize Hezbollah’s pervasive influence within the military structure. Phares has previously advised President Trump and stated, “The question of arming the Lebanese army is controversial; some lawmakers propose cutting support altogether, while others argue that it might keep Hezbollah at bay.”
Phares advocates for a strategic shift where funds are redirected towards specialized units within the LAF focused solely on disarming Hezbollah, reporting directly to the army command and the president.
Looking Ahead: Potential Shifts in Lebanese Dynamics
The lack of decisive action against Hezbollah’s military presence in Lebanon has raised concerns among both local and international observers. Lieutenant Colonel (Res.) Sarit Zehavi, president of the Alma Research and Education Center, remarked on the ineffective deployment of the LAF against Hezbollah’s resurgence in southern Lebanon.
Zehavi expressed concern, stating, “As long as Hezbollah operates in these towns unchecked, they pose a significant threat to regional security and may launch additional attacks.” She further emphasized the necessity for action, warning against underestimating Hezbollah’s capabilities and intentions.
The growing uncertainty and tension in Lebanon reflect a complex interplay of regional dynamics. Observers question whether the U.S. will reassess its strategy towards funding the LAF in light of these troubling developments.
A spokesperson from the U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding potential changes to military aid for Lebanon.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
