The ongoing conflict in south Lebanon, with Israeli forces clashing with Hizbollah fighters on the ground, has revealed a glaring absence on the battlefield – the Lebanese army. The fragility and inadequacy of the Lebanese Armed Forces underscore the country’s vulnerable state, unable to defend against foreign invaders. Instead of being a formidable force, the army has primarily served to maintain internal stability, safeguarding against sectarian tensions.
- Lebanese army: Hindered and Hopeful
- The Bleak History: The legacy of Lebanon’s civil war and the subsequent sectarian divisions within the army have weakened its ability to emerge as a strong national military. Soldiers defected to militias during the war, leaving the army fragmented and lacking a unified command structure.
- Political Calculations: Lebanon’s post-war era has seen rival factions reluctant to empower a robust national army, as it could challenge their factional control and undercut external influences favoring the status quo. Limited investment in defense has left the army ill-equipped to counter external threats.
-
Current Challenges: The financial collapse plaguing Lebanon since 2019 has exacerbated the army’s woes, with soldiers struggling to make ends meet on meager salaries. External support from the US and Qatar has provided some relief, but the long-term sustainability of these arrangements remains uncertain.
- Hope on Horizon: Strengthening the Lebanese Army
-
Capacity Building: Despite its shortcomings, the LAF has made strides in professionalizing and modernizing, especially in counterterrorism efforts. Collaborative efforts with international partners have enhanced its operational effectiveness and readiness to confront security challenges.
-
Border Protectors: Enhanced border security measures, particularly along Lebanon’s frontier with Syria, showcase the army’s evolving capabilities in safeguarding national sovereignty. The potential implementation of Resolution 1701 could further expand the LAF’s role in securing the border region.
-
Seizing the Opportunity: The current crisis presents a pivotal moment for the Lebanese army to consolidate its position as a guarantor of national security. With Hizbollah facing significant setbacks, there is a window of opportunity for the LAF to assert its authority and bolster Lebanon’s defense posture.
In conclusion, the Lebanese army’s journey from a fractured domestic force to a potential beacon of national resilience underscores the complexities of Lebanon’s security landscape. As the country navigates through turbulent times, empowering the army to fulfill its mandate of defending the nation becomes imperative. The unfolding events in south Lebanon may herald a transformative period for the LAF, shaping the region’s security dynamics for years to come.
