U.S. Approves $230 Million Aid to Strengthen Lebanon’s Security Forces Amid Hezbollah Tensions

The Trump administration has approved $230 million in funding for Lebanon’s security forces as part of ongoing efforts to counter Hezbollah’s influence and strengthen state institutions. According to sources in Washington and Beirut, the package includes $190 million for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and $40 million for the Internal Security Forces (ISF).

U.S. congressional aides confirmed the funds were released just before the fiscal year ended on September 30, highlighting the significance of the aid for a small, crisis-stricken country like Lebanon. The move underscores Washington’s dual approach of prioritizing “America First” while strategically investing in regional stability, particularly amid the conflict in Gaza and broader Middle East tensions.

The decision also comes as Lebanon continues to grapple with the aftermath of its devastating conflict with Israel, which began a year ago and left much of the country in ruins. Hezbollah, the Iran-backed political and military group, has long resisted calls to disarm despite mounting domestic and international pressure. However, recent demands from Lebanese leaders, including President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, have amplified the push for weapons to be placed solely under the authority of state security forces. On August 5, they tasked the U.S.-backed army with developing a plan to ensure all arms across Lebanon are under official control by year’s end.

The newly released funding is expected to enhance the ISF’s ability to maintain internal security, allowing the LAF to focus on border defense and other critical operations. While the U.S. State Department declined to comment, analysts note that the aid reflects Washington’s strategy of reinforcing Lebanese state institutions as a counterweight to Hezbollah’s military presence.

This development marks one of the most significant U.S. security assistance commitments to Lebanon in recent years, signaling continued American involvement in shaping the country’s fragile security landscape.