The U.S. is deeply involved in a secretive war in Lebanon, with concerns that this could escalate conflicts in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Hamas. The U.S. has been providing extensive security aid to Lebanon, focusing on counterterrorism against Hezbollah and Sunni terror groups, through a clandestine program known as “Lion Hunter.” Recent clashes in Beirut and U.S. citizens being urged to leave Lebanon highlight the rising tensions and potential risks for broader regional conflict.
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Key Points:Â
- The U.S. has provided billions in security assistance to Lebanon and is conducting covert operations against terror groups like Hezbollah, Islamic State, and Al Qaeda.
- The U.S.-Lebanon security relationship, including the controversial 127e (“127-echo”) program, risks drawing the U.S. further into Middle Eastern conflicts and increases danger to U.S. troops in the region.
- The recent surge in violence, including attacks on U.S. forces in the Middle East and unrest in Beirut following a deadly explosion in Gaza, has heightened concerns about a broader Middle Eastern war.
- The Israeli-Palestinian conflict and U.S. involvement in secret wars like those in Lebanon necessitate greater congressional oversight to prevent further escalation.
- The U.S.’s military engagement in Lebanon, exempt from the Leahy Law vetting process, raises concerns about potentially supporting groups or individuals harmful to civilians and U.S. credibility.
Source: https://theintercept.com/2023/10/24/israel-lebanon-us-military-hezbollah/Â
