The Biden administration has announced a decision to redirect $95 million in military assistance from Egypt to Lebanon, citing the need to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) amid regional security challenges. This move comes as a blow to Cairo, a long-standing ally of the United States, and raises questions about Washington’s approach to regional priorities and human rights considerations.
Key Developments:
- Lebanese Focus: The US State Department described the LAF as a “key partner” in maintaining the ceasefire established in November 2024 between Israel and Lebanon and countering threats from Hezbollah and other non-state actors.
- Egypt’s Position: The aid shift coincides with ongoing criticism from US lawmakers over Egypt’s human rights record, particularly concerning political prisoners. Despite these criticisms, Egypt has remained a crucial mediator in regional conflicts, including efforts to facilitate aid into Gaza and broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
- Funding Context: The reallocated funds were initially part of Egypt’s $1.3 billion annual military aid, with $95 million previously linked to progress on human rights issues. The Biden administration had earlier overridden these conditions, granting Egypt its full allocation in September, a decision that faced opposition from some US legislators.
While Cairo has not officially commented, the decision is expected to fuel concerns about the erosion of Egypt’s strategic importance in US foreign policy. Analysts suggest that while Lebanon faces pressing security challenges, Egypt’s pivotal role in mediating regional conflicts and maintaining stability should not be overlooked.
Congress has 15 days to object to the reallocation, though early indications suggest bipartisan support for the move, with lawmakers viewing it as a strategic adjustment in line with US priorities in the Levant region.