Rice Says U.S. Will Beef Up the Lebanese Army

U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said Washington was considering a financial package to beef up the Lebanese army.

"We are still working out the details of what we can do to support the army," Rice said in an interview published in The Washington Post Friday.

In addition, she said, the Bush administration needed to have consultations with Congress over the package.

"But we have wanted very much to support the reform of the Lebanese armed forces, the reequipping of the Lebanese armed forces," Rice said.

"It's not just the package that we would put forward, but it's also the package that I think others are prepared to, including the mainstream Arab states are prepared to contribute to," Rice said.

"Because ultimately that's one of the most important things that you can do is to strengthen the Lebanese armed forces probably not to replace the United Nations forces for some time, but to be more capable themselves of defending the country and providing a stable platform," she said.

She said she could not give details of the aid package.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is deployed south of the Litani river and is tasked with backing up the Lebanese army under U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701 which ended the 34-day Israel-Hizbullah war on August 14.

Rice also said that the U.S. has committed "large resources" to reconstruction following the devastating Israeli offensive.

"We'll, I think eventually head towards a billion dollars for reconstruction and redevelopment in Lebanon," she said.

She rejected reaching out to Iran and Syria, saying neither country should need an incentive to push for stability in Iraq.

Rice said the "compensation" needed for any deal would likely be too high, and that she did not want to trade Lebanese sovereignty to Syria or allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon as a price for peace in Iraq.

"Lebanese democracy is not going to be sacrificed somehow to a deal with Syria about stability in the Middle East," she said.(AFP-Naharnet)



Beirut, 15 Dec 06, 20:37

yes,if they want to help,they have to PROVE this....ACT NOW.

i don't beleive the Americans anymore !!! they talk and talk !! we need acts !!

:applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause:
I've completely lost trust in the US ... their choice is all too clear in the conflict, and I would actually reject any aid they do provide since it wont give us any security and it would be intended to protect lebanese against internal conflicts ... god forbid we protect ourselves from external ones

Lebanon should not rely on the US for upgrading the Lebanese Army or for any kind of aid for that matter.

They should go after a European country. A country that is not in bed with Lebanon's southern neighbor.

Robert Fisk couldn't have said it better in this article:

America’s promises of assistance in Middle East should be treated with caution. We keep saying we want to give democracy to the Middle East but what they really want is freedom from us and this we are not willing to give them.

After the Syrians were ejected from Lebanon, Americans described this as a Cedar Revolution which was an American phrase, not a Lebanese phrase, and said it would stand behind the Siniora government. When Israel started bombarding Lebanon it held Siniora’s government responsible which was a lie. The Americans did nothing to protect the same democracy. Now that democracy might crumble in face of Hezbollah opposition. Now suddenly we love them again. The Iranians promised money to Lebanon, the Syrians promised protection, the Americans promised to protect democracy. If only the Lebanese would trust each other more than they would trust other countries, Lebanon would be safer.

http://yalibnan.com/site/archives/2006/12/lebanon_is_the.php

US readies $500 million Aid Package to help Lebanon military


Friday, 22 December, 2006 @ 5:02 PM


Beirut- The United States is preparing a package of almost $500 million in aid for Lebanon's military and police to help strengthen the security forces, part of almost $1 billion in total U.S. assistance to help the beleaguered Lebanese government, according to U.S. officials.


The package is part of an effort by the United States, France, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and others to shore up the Lebanese security forces so they can eventually extend their control over the entire country for the first time since civil war erupted there in 1975. It is also designed to strengthen the government's hand over the influence of Hezbollah, Lebanon's last militia and a force often better-equipped than the country's army, the sources said.

After Iraq, Lebanon has become the primary battleground for influence between the United States and Iran.

Tehran is still smuggling arms into Lebanon across the Syrian border in violation of U.N. resolutions, although the shipments to its Hezbollah allies appear to have diminished somewhat since before the war with Israel last summer, U.S. officials say.

The U.S. aid package is being prepared even as a new report by the International Crisis Group, set to be released today, warns that the Middle Eastern country is at risk of "renewed collapse" unless domestic and international players work to achieve political compromise.

"Street politics have replaced institutional politics," said ICG analyst Patrick Haenni. "Civil war remains unlikely. But with heightened polarization, intensified [religious divisions] and heavy outside interference, it is again becoming thinkable."

Although U.S. officials say the final details have to be worked out, the aid package is likely to be divided about evenly among training, spare parts and ammunition. The leadership training will probably be done by contract workers rather than by the U.S. military. U.S. Army trainers attempted to retrain and reform the Lebanese army in the early 1980s, but they achieved limited results because of sectarian divisions and other problems in the military.

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice told editors and reporters at The Washington Post last week that strengthening the Lebanese armed forces is a major priority of the United States and the region's "mainstream" Arabs. Stability, particularly along the southern border with Israel, has been dependent on about 15,000 U.N. peacekeeping troops, most of whom were deployed after the summer war between Hezbollah and Israel.

"Ultimately . . . one of the most important things that you can do is to strengthen the Lebanese armed forces not -- I think probably not to replace the United Nations forces for some time, but to be more capable themselves of defending the country and providing a stable platform," Rice told The Post. "Everybody understands that the future of Lebanon is very important."

Rice said the package will require further consultations with Congress to win funding. The other half of the $1 billion is likely to be for reconstruction through USAID as well as debt relief, U.S. officials said.

The aid increase is one of the largest outside Iraq and Afghanistan in recent years. Until this year, U.S. aid for Lebanese security forces hovered around $2 million to $3 million a year, and training has been limited to 60 to 100 military officers, U.S. officials say. This year, it has increased to roughly $44 million.

The train-and-equip package includes about 300 Humvees that the United States has pledged to deliver by the spring, with up to another 700 Humvees coming during the year, the sources said.

Picture: Humvee. Lebanon could receive as many as 700 in the aid package
Source: Washington Post

US delivers first shipment of military aid to Lebanon
Saturday, 13 January, 2007 @ 1:51 AM


Beirut- The United States delivered 20 armored military Humvees to Lebanon in what it described as a "down payment" in a major effort to boost the parliament backed government of Prime Minister Fouad Siniora.


A US Air Force C-17 transport aircraft landed at Beirut airport carrying the first 20 of 285 "Humvee" vehicles for the Lebanese army, the State Department said.

"Today we made a down payment on some of the support we've promised for the Lebanese armed forces," department deputy spokesman Tom Casey told reporters.

"These are going to be used as part of our effort to help strengthen that force, give both the mobility and the technical and logistical support it needs to be able to carry out its mandate throughout Lebanon," he said.

The remaining 265 Humvees will be delivered in the months to come, helping "to ensure that the Lebanese people enjoy the security and sovereignty that a strong, well-equipped (military) serves to guarantee," he said.

Lebanon's army deployed throughout Lebanon for the first time in decades late last year under the terms of a UN ceasefire resolution that ended a month-long war between Israel and the radical Islamic militia Hezbollah.

Under the resolution, the army now patrols alongside UN peacekeepers in the southern region bordering Israel, which has long been a stronghold of the Syrian-backed Hezbollah.

Lebanese forces have also deployed along the Syrian border, tasked with preventing shipments of Iranian weapons to Hezbollah.

The Humvee shipment came as Siniora is locked in a power struggle with Hezbollah and pro-Syrian and Iranian allies trying to topple his government.

Syria was the main power in Lebanon for decades until it was forced to withdraw from the country after being implicated in the 2005 assassination of former Lebanese prime minister Rafik Hariri.

Washington has frequently accused Damascus of trying to oust Siniora and reassert its authority over Lebanon, in part to block investigations into the Hariri murder and a string of assassinations targeting anti-Syrian figures.

Friday's aid delivery was part of a 39 million dollar military assistance package approved for Lebanon in last year's budget, and Casey said Washington would continue its aid in 2007.

"We don't have a budget yet for this fiscal year, but we do intend to increase that as the year goes on," he said.

Lebanon's army and leadership received high marks

Most political observers have praised the Lebanese army and its leadership for a job well done ever since the war ended and specially after the army deployed in southern Lebanon. In south Lebanon citizens were welcoming the army with flowers and rice. For the first time in 40 years the citizens felt they are secure under the protection of the Lebanese army.

The army has also performed extremely well in protecting the Lebanese institutions during the protests of the pro-Syrian Hezbollah group and its allies.

Picture: A US made military Humvee

Sources: Agencies , Ya Libnan




Feedback? We want to hear your thoughts!

Lebanese Internal Security Forces stand guard in front of vehicles donated from the United States to the Lebanese Government as a policeman walks behind them with his police dog at a handover ceremony at the Dbayeh barracks, north of Beirut, Lebanon, Wednesday, Feb. (AP/MAHMOUD TAWIL)


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Well,Actually we thank the USA for this Gift...at least they r helping lebanon now,while everybody is watching.
this is has nothiong to do with the war,they r responsible for it forsure,but this is another issue.

All I have to say is this is a great gift from the US and we in Lebanon appreciate it very much. Why should everyone else benefit from US aid and not Lebanon? And why should Iran get to fund Hizballah but the US cant fund Lebanon? It is about time and I am very happy. The US may be against Hizballah but it strongly supports our government and this proves that it is not just rhetoric but they are acting on their support. This is the first step to making our army stronger than the Hizballah militia. A very good development...

^^ Indeed (Beirut), and interesting contrast with many comments above by various forumers -luckily!

the four wheeled drives look cool

The Lebanese Army is for ALL Lebanese not March14, so like Hassoun said, unless you know what you are talking about dont stir things up with ignorant statements. The Israeli Army, Jordanian Army, Egyptian Army, etc ALL receive huge amounts of aid from the USA, its about time Lebanon sees some of that too...we arent getting nearly as much as other countries but it is still appreciated.

That looks more like riot gear to me... or is that what the Lebanese armed forces already have? Anyway I'm sure this is a long needed boost in inventory for the Lebanese armed forces, but you'll need a whole lot more.

And why should Iran get to fund Hizballah but the US cant fund Lebanon?

Sorry Beirut! I do usually try to avoid confronting you for various reasons but you must agree that Iran has sent ridiculous ammounts of aid (not in the military sense) to Lebanon even cheating out its own people... Also has just made an agreement to help restore Lebanon's infrastructure (reported by AFP today http://skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?goto=newpost&t=440090)

That looks more like riot gear to me... or is that what the Lebanese armed forces already have? Anyway I'm sure this is a long needed boost in inventory for the Lebanese armed forces, but you'll need a whole lot more.



Sorry Beirut! I do usually try to avoid confronting you for various reasons but you must agree that Iran has sent ridiculous ammounts of aid (not in the military sense) to Lebanon even cheating out its own people... Also has just made an agreement to help restore Lebanon's infrastructure (reported by AFP today http://skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?goto=newpost&t=440090)

Shugs,The Equipments above are for Lebanese internal forces,Not the army.

^ I did not say they were for the army, I said armed forces ;)

But yeh I thought so, they looked like an elite police force in those pics... Nice shot guns too :tongue2:

Hopefully they won't have to use it against anyone.

Well it gives you no right to talk about the Lebanese politics if you havent lived in the country under these circumstances, sure you can say dont accept USA's donation, but this is all we have left cuz we suffered a lot while you're siting in your rich houses, comfortable and havent experienced what it feels like to have your home destroyed and/or your loved one dead. Not EVERY country could afford 60 SUV's and weapons to the army, and I think the government knows whats best for the country.

this is why i love u, so smart!!!! :)

Just so you all know, Belgiuim is so far the only western country that has committed to supplying the Lebanese Army with lethal weapons.

They will be supplying the Lebanese Army with 45 German-built Leopard main battle tanks and 20 US-built M109 Howitzers.

The United Arab Emirates is supplying 9 Gazelle helicopter gunships.

Now we need a country to commit to supplying anti-tank and anti-aircraft weaponry.

Yes,especially anti-aircraft weaponry.

Just so you all know, Belgiuim is so far the only western country that has committed to supplying the Lebanese Army with lethal weapons.

They will be supplying the Lebanese Army with 45 German-built Leopard main battle tanks and 20 US-built M109 Howitzers.

The United Arab Emirates is supplying 9 Gazelle helicopter gunships.

Now we need a country to commit to supplying anti-tank and anti-aircraft weaponry.

And when will they arrive (or have they already)? Were these helicopters the ones used in Nahr el-Bared?

US delivers 80 Humvees to Lebanon army


Tuesday, 7 August, 2007 @ 8:00 PM


http://yalibnan.com/site/archives/2007/08/07/Humvee.jpg


Beirut - The US government delivered the second batch of Humvees to the Lebanese Armed Forces ( LAF). The first batch of 20 units was delivered earlier in the year. This is part of more than $270 Million in Military Assistance to Lebanon in 2007.

The US embassy in Beirut issued the following press release today announcing the delivery of the vehicles:


Deliveries of U.S. Vehicles to Lebanese Armed Forces Continue; Part of more than $270 Million in Military Assistance to Lebanon in 2007 August 7, 2007

The United States delivered 80 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWV) – more commonly known as humvees – to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) at Port of Beirut. These HMMWVs represent the latest delivery of its kind in ongoing U.S. support for the LAF in their protection of the Lebanese people and their territory.

This shipment increases the number of HMMWVs to 100 that the LAF has received from the United States – 20 arrived earlier in the year – as part of a total commitment of 285 vehicles. Residents may have seen them already as the LAF conducts operations to secure the country’s and Lebanese people’s safety. Lebanon is receiving $255 million in military equipment and training from the United States in 2007, a 550% increase compared with 2006. The overall 2007 U.S. military assistance package for Lebanon is valued at $270 million, which includes emergency ammunition.

These HMMWVs were purchased with U.S. security assistance funds as part of an ongoing program to assist the LAF, a highly motivated and proud military loyal to the democratically elected Government of Lebanon. These vehicles represent U.S. support for the hopes and aspirations of the heroic LAF who demonstrate their professionalism on a daily basis.

The Departments of Defense and State worked to expedite delivery of these 100 HMMWVs as a symbol of steadfast and continuous support for the LAF, the Government of Lebanese, and the Lebanese people.



Sources: US embassy , Lebanon

LoL
A little late for sending military help, GW :|

^^ Well these types of deliveries take time to plan and organize, but they actually started back at the beginning of the year, this is just a continuation.

I believe the US is the quickest out of the donors to send aid!

they shud send more effective weapons like...FIGHTER JETS for example

they shud send more effective weapons like...FIGHTER JETS for example

Better than that would be SAM systems I think. Cheaper to maintain and just as effective especially considering Lebanon is a relatively small country.

well i think if we had fighter jets finishing off the Nahr El Bared camp conflict would have been muchhh easier and faster for example...IMO

well i think if we had fighter jets finishing off the Nahr El Bared camp conflict would have been muchhh easier and faster for example...IMO

Yes but that can also be done with gunships.
Doesn't Lebanon have Russian Mi-19?

^^we don't need russian crap from the 2nd world war lol...we need F-16's!!

We used to have a good airforce ..one of the first int he region..I think the LAF can be strengthened to the point as being the best trained and equiped force that can beat ANY challenge internally first. I dont know...I dont think Lebanon would have any issue to be a "offensive" military..only "defensive"..

We have no land claims except shebaa (and our army isnt going to open a front againts Israel there) and this issue will be setlled soon..We are not going to attack our neighbors or have any reason to attck us..Once HZ lays dwn its arms ..the border will stay quiet

Lebanese army blames lack of heavy weapons from US on long battle at refugee camp

The Associated Press
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
BEIRUT, Lebanon: The Lebanese military has been pounding the Nahr el-Bared refugee camp relentlessly for nearly three months, trying to wipe out Islamic militant fighters. But instead, it has given them a new form of protection: vast rubble in which to hide.

As a result, the grueling battle shows no sign of ending soon. Frustrated commanders say they could have won long ago if they had received more sophisticated weapons from the United States, the government's top ally.

Army commander Gen. Michel Suleiman has lamented the lack of sufficient weapons to fight the al-Qaida-inspired Fatah Islam militants holed up in the camp in northern Lebanon. He said the army was looking to other countries to buy weapons.

"We need weapons, conventional and advanced ammunition," he said Monday. "We didn't get anything but promises and best wishes and some ammunition, but no equipment. It's as though they are telling us, 'die first and assistance will follow,'" he added, without referring directly to the U.S.

The United States dramatically increased its military aid to Lebanon as a show of support for the beleagered pro-Western prime minister, Fuad Saniora. When the battle at Nahr el-Bared began on May 20 — sparked when Fatah Islam militants attacked army troops near the base — Washington rushed supplies to Lebanon, particularly automatic rifle ammunition, helmets, body armor and night-vision goggles.

"What we have been providing is exactly what they have been requesting," a U.S. Embassy official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the press on the subject.

"We were able to fulfill their requests in a month, far faster than the delivery period for other countries, given the circumstances in the north," he said.

But the United States has for decades adhered to an unofficial policy of not arming the Lebanese military with heavy or sophisticated weapons for fear they may be used against its ally Israel, former senior Lebanese military commanders say.

Military experts say the army could have gained a decisive edge early on in the battle if it had sophisticated weapons such as helicopter-launched anti-tank missiles and counterbattery radar designed to track the trajectory of incoming artillery and mortar projectiles. The equipment would have allowed them to better pinpoint the fighters in the densely built refugee camp.

Instead, the military has blasted the camp constantly with artillery and tank shells, levelling large swaths of it. Its more than 30,000 civilian residents fled in the first weeks, leaving the way for troops to slowly move in.

The result is deadly fighting in a maze of cinderblock houses and tall buildings. Fatah Islam gunmen have shown great resilience, hitting army posts with mortar and grenades. Their snipers have also inflicted heavy losses on the soldiers. More than 130 troops have been killed so far.

Suleiman estimated about 70 Fatah Islam fighters remain in the camp, down from the estimate of 360 when the fighting began. Along with them are some 100 women and children believed to be relatives, he said.

But the dozens of fighters who remain will be tough to uproot, said Walid Sukariya, a retired Lebanese army brigadier.

"They are now fortified in the rubble and below ground. The camp has been transformed into intertwined concrete blocks," said Sukariya. "The rubble is now protecting the fighters from shells, so it's very difficult for the troops to advance and route them out."

He and other experts say only heavy aerial bombardment can do the job. But Lebanon has no fixed-wing aircraft — only 33 U.S. and French-made helicopters, largely non-combat.

The United Arab Emirates gave Lebanon 10 old French-made Gazelle attack helicopters, but removed their anti-tank missiles before delivering them. The Lebanese army itself stuck machine guns on the aging helicopters.

The army also lacks electronic intelligence gathering and communication equipment, said Timur Goksel, a former spokesman for the U.N. peacekeepers in Lebanon who now teaches at the American University in Beirut. Soldiers communicate by mobile telephones with each other.

On Tuesday, Gazelle copters struck Fatah Islam hideouts in the camp, destroying an underground shelter, as tanks and artillery continued their bombardment, the state-run National News Agency said.

The fight could drag on, said Goksel.

"From now on, it's going to be a very tedious task," he said. "It's going to finish meter by meter. Now, they're in one-square kilometer or so."

Suleiman's comments Monday appeared to be a signal to the U.S. and Saniora's government to get more support.

Next month, Lebanon's defense minister is expected to head to Moscow for talks, including on military aid — another pressure on Washington.

Suleiman's comments "could be a message to America that if they don't give us weapons, we'll look for it elsewhere," said Sukariya. "If America refuses to give us, we have to get it, even if from the devil."


source: http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/08/14/africa/ME-GEN-Lebanon-Hiding-in-Rubble.php?page=1

^^we don't need russian crap from the 2nd world war lol...we need F-16's!!

Russian weapon is everything but not crap.

Btw. it's better to have older planes but skilled pilots. Egyptians and Syrians learnd that in hard way.

The United Arab Emirates gave Lebanon 10 old French-made Gazelle attack helicopters, but removed their anti-tank missiles before delivering them. The Lebanese army itself stuck machine guns on the aging helicopters.

:rofl:

Russian weapon is everything but not crap.

Btw. it's better to have older planes but skilled pilots. Egyptians and Syrians learnd that in hard way.

actully Russian weapons especially thier planes are very well known for thier unreaibility and crappy makes

So, now we have military experts calling Russian industry “Crap” Anyway, F16’s are not needed to fight bunch of gangsters.

29/08/2007 19:18 BEIRUT, Aug 29 (AFP)
Lebanese army receives 130 US Humvees

The Lebanese army took delivery on Wednesday of 130 Humvee armoured vehicles as part of increased US military aid to the country.

The vehicles were delivered to the army chief, General Michel Sleiman, at a ceremony attended by Defence Minister Elias Murr, US Ambassador Jeffrey Feltman and the visiting head of US Central Command, Admiral William Fallon.

Feltman said US aid in 2007 would exceed 270 million dollars, or five times more than that last year.

The under-equipped Lebanese army deployed to the border with Israel last year for the first time in nearly four decades after the devastating summer war between the Jewish state and guerrillas of Lebanon's Shiite movement Hezbollah.

And since May of this year, it has been battling an Al-Qaeda inspired Islamist movement holed up in a Palestinian refugee camp at Nahr Al-Bared in the north of the country.

Feltman said: "Our partnership includes the commitment of the United States to provide the (armed forces) with the supplies they need to battle -- and conquer -- the armed extremists in the north.

"We are supplying the Lebanese Armed Forces with the equipment, armament, and training necessary to protect Lebanon and the Lebanese people from threats foreign and domestic," he said in a statement.

During his visit to Lebanon, Admiral Fallon also met with Prime Minister Fuad Siniora, who stressed the "need to adopt peaceful solutions to resolve the problems of the region," according to a statement from the premier's office.


source: http://www.africasia.com/services/news/newsitem.php?area=mideast&item=070829191803.z5r8fqkr.php

I'm not against anyone’s opinion or their right to do as they please.

However comparing any Military Aid Lebanon receives to the $30 billion dollar military budget Israel just received from the US, is quiet laughable.

Israel continue to get over $4 billion a year in aid, no one can even remotely compare that to anything any other country receive let alone the aid to Lebanon made up of some cars and old tanks, and even if we want to pretend Lebanon gotten far more then that and go as far as claiming it’s worth $10 million US, it remains pointless to even compare.

At the end, Lebanon as a gov. continue to suffer from a diseases called “nationalism and sectarian divide” that’s been present on every level of religions, be it Muslims or Christians or otherwise, since the civil war – where did that get us?

As long as the Lebanese gov. is based on who is related to whom and who represent what sect, it will remain a false government that exists to serve the well connected people and ignores the under dog.

When a Lebanese gov. is elected to serve LEBANON as a whole, I will be the first to support it; but its wishful thinking to even expect ordinary Lebanese to see beyond their sectarian affiliation.

US tells Lebanon army: 'you can count on our support'

The Associated Press
Thursday, August 30, 2007

BEIRUT, Lebanon: The United States has pledged continued support to Lebanon's army, which has been fighting a vicious battle against al-Qaida-inspired Islamist militants.

The pledge came during a visit by top U.S. commander in the Middle East, Adm. William Fallon, head of the U.S. Central Command, who met separately with Prime Minister Fuad Saniora, Defense Minister Elias Murr and army commander Gen. Michel Suleiman in brief trip to Lebanon Wednesday.

In a statement after the meetings, U.S. Ambassador to Beirut Jeffrey Feltman praised Lebanon's efforts and reiterated "the strength of the strategic partnership between the United States and Lebanon."

"Lebanon, you can count on us to support the aspirations of the heroic LAF (Lebanese Armed Forces)," Feltman said.

The Lebanese army has been locked in fierce battles for the past three months with Fatah Islam militants holed up in a Palestinian refugee camp in northern Lebanon.

A total of 148 soldiers have been killed in the fighting, along with an unknown number of militants and about 20 civilians.

Feltman said the United States remains committed to providing the Lebanese army with the "supplies they need to battle — and conquer — the armed extremists in the North. And the United States is delivering on our promise."

During a Defense Ministry ceremony in which the commanders inspected Humvee vehicles — part of the U.S. military assistance — Fallon was quoted by the official news agency as "offering my services and those of my command to work with you to achieve matters that you consider beneficial in building the Lebanese Armed Forces."

Washington and some of its Arab allies have airlifted supplies, mostly of ammunition, to the Lebanese army in the early days of the northern Lebanon fighting. The military in Lebanon is an all-volunteer force of 56,000, with about 220 battle tanks, no effective air power and no air defense system.

Murr, the defense minister, stressed in Wednesday's ceremony that arming the Lebanese army was a "vital necessity to defend Lebanon's sovereignty and existence and complete the war against terror."

He said it was a "joint interest" for countries to help Lebanon's military to fight terrorism.

The United States has sharply increased its military assistance to Lebanon in the last year. U.S. military assistance rose to more than US$270 million in 2007, more than five times the amount Washington provided a year ago.

But opponents of the United States in Lebanon, particularly the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group, have criticized the assistance.

they only donated 500 million they should have donated 5 billion !!!! to rebuild lebanon and make it better :D

The news of Fallon visiting himself is Highly significant I believe. This is guy head honcho number 1. Why would he himself visit Lebanon? He is not the man to attend an insignificant donation ceremony..Also typically army usually visits army..he visited Siniora...This is a major message that seems to have been understated in the media. This is saying that if you mess with Lebanon (Syria, Iran, and supporters) You may be getting the US military support to stop any attempt to take over or to stop civil unrest...he comes to Lebanon 1 month befor the Presidential elections...when idiots are calling for 2 govts one led by March 8 and the other march 14th supporters...They will fail..as the constitution is clear..And will be universally condemend. Also a major factor is the Central Bank..who has announced they will "support the rightful democratically elected goverment of Lebanon" Theres your answer.

His visit was a powerful message at a major time in Lebanons history.

The victory - Lebanon developed helicopter bombers
Monday, 3 September, 2007 @ 6:38 AM
By: RIAD KAHWAJI
Beirut- Faced with an urgent need for air-strike weaponry, the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) has taken a do-it-yourself approach.

LAF technical teams have converted UH-1H utility helicopters into bombers, updated decades-old bombs and are planning to resurrect out-of-service warplanes, Lebanese officials said.

“We have a serious situation in Nahr Al-Bared refugee camp and the international community has not responded fast enough to our military requirements to deal with the threat,” one senior Lebanese military official said.

“Hence we have decided to take things in our own hands. We brought out 30-year-old bombs — originally acquired to be used on board the Hawker Hunter attack aircraft — and now we are dropping them from our helicopters with a good degree of precision and effectiveness.”

The LAF has been fighting an al-Qaida-allied Islamic terrorist group known as Fatah Al-Islam in the Nahr Al-Bared Palestinian refugee camp in northern Lebanon since late May. Most of the camp’s 35,000 inhabitants left in the early days of the fighting. More recently, LAF Special Forces and armored units have been making slow but steady progress in the camp’s narrow alleyways. LAF officials said some 400 to 500 terrorists have been killed in the fighting, with at least 100 captured and an estimated 65 still holding out. To date, 146 LAF troops have been killed.

Arafat Fortifications
The current phase of the conflict in Nahr Al-Bared has been regarded by experts as the toughest because the terrorists are using bomb shelters and fortifications built years ago by the Palestine Liberation Organization to be used by its late leader Yassir Arafat.

“These are very well-built defenses with bomb shelters and bunkers linked up with underground tunnels,” said Ahmad Temsah, a retired Lebanese Air Force brigadier general. “Regular artillery and tank shells have no serious effect on such defenses, and the only way to deal with them is through heavy air-dropped bombs.”

Temsah called the move to convert helicopters into bombers a “genius idea.”

LAF technicians and engineers modified the UH-1H helicopters, raising the height of the landing skids and belly mounting bomb-release gear and pylons from retired Mirage-3 jets.

“Then we got out of the depots old bombs and fitted them with new detonators and loaded them on the helicopters and tested the system and it was a success,” the official said.

So far, the helicopters have dropped 250-kilogram and 400-kilogram bombs from altitudes between 3,000 and 4,000 feet. The pilots use GPS devices to help guide them from point of departure to the bomb-release point.

“The precision has been remarkable, with most bombs landing within a 10-meter radius,” Temsah said.

The strikes have demolished many of the camp’s two- and three-floor buildings and many of the fortifications of the Fatah Al-Islam, according to LAF officials.

The LAF engineers have set up a bomb production line to ensure there will be enough bombs to complete the fight in Nahr Al-Bared and to prepare for possible future confrontations, the senior military official said.

Fawzi Abu-Farhat, a retired LAF brigadier general and editor of the monthly Arab Defense Journal, said, “This is the first time in the history of warfare that a helicopter is used as a bomber ... in an effective manner.”

But Temsah said helicopter bombs can only be used in special cases when the enemy does not have air defenses and the weather conditions are good.

The LAF official said commanders have also decided to bring five Hawker Hunter jets back into service after a decade’s retirement — if needed parts can be found. Sources said the main need is for ejector-seat parts.

Abu-Farhat noted that the LAF is one of the few Arab militaries that rely on local technicians to maintain and repair equipment and airplanes, and said the country’s acute economic conditions compel the troops to be innovative.

“These technical skills have enabled the LAF to keep many of its helicopters flying even when the West was not providing Lebanon with spare parts and military aid,” Abu Farhat said. “Now these same technicians and engineers, who are educated and trained in Europe and the U.S., have developed the helicopter bombers.”

LAF Command officials have complained in recent months that long-promised international military aid has arrived too slowly and in quantities too small to meet its modernization needs.

Temsah called for the international community to step up its airpower aid.

“Lebanon is a mountainous country, and hence the LAF must have an airpower capability, even at a minimum level of one squadron of attack warplanes for close ground support,” Temsah said.

How do all these other countroies or rouge states obatin all there advanced weapons ? Surely we could also

^^We can have those weapons from FRANCE

^^no we can't...we couldn't even get missiles for the helicopters, it's not about who you get it from

The Lebanese Air Force had a total lack of fixed wing fighter aircraft capability from the early 1990's. Until then, the fighter force used to consist of 12 Hawker Hunters purchased between 1952 and 1958 and based in Rayak AFB under the 2nd squadron, as well as 16 Mirage III EL and BL purchased from France in 1968 and based in Beirut under the 5th squadron. Until August 2007, these fighters were mothballed out of active service due to their outdated technology, a lack of combat value, a lack of funds, and mostly due to political decisions at the time. Moreover, the Mirage III were sold to Pakistan in 2000 as spare parts but were overhauled into active service by the Pakistani Air Force due to their excellent condition. It was first reported in August 20th 2007 that at least four Hawker Hunters were successfully put back in service and pilots were being trained for bombing missions due to the difficulties faced in Nahr El Bared where militants were holed in underground bunkers. The Hunters are yet to be used in the conflict but have been reported to be in full operational status.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

I think it was a mistake to sell the Mirage's

^^no we can't...we couldn't even get missiles for the helicopters, it's not about who you get it from

can someone plz explain why can't we even get some stupid missiles ?

^^cuz they might be used against Israel...so the 'big' guys wouldn't allow that

Yes but thats why they shouldnt attack Lebanon..If you dont attack you have nothign to worry about..Lebanon is not going to launch a war against Israel and would only use the wepons in defense on there own land

The Lebanese Air Force had a total lack of fixed wing fighter aircraft capability from the early 1990's. Until then, the fighter force used to consist of 12 Hawker Hunters purchased between 1952 and 1958 and based in Rayak AFB under the 2nd squadron, as well as 16 Mirage III EL and BL purchased from France in 1968 and based in Beirut under the 5th squadron. Until August 2007, these fighters were mothballed out of active service due to their outdated technology, a lack of combat value, a lack of funds, and mostly due to political decisions at the time. Moreover, the Mirage III were sold to Pakistan in 2000 as spare parts but were overhauled into active service by the Pakistani Air Force due to their excellent condition. It was first reported in August 20th 2007 that at least four Hawker Hunters were successfully put back in service and pilots were being trained for bombing missions due to the difficulties faced in Nahr El Bared where militants were holed in underground bunkers. The Hunters are yet to be used in the conflict but have been reported to be in full operational status.


-------------------------------------------------------------------------

I think it was a mistake to sell the Mirage's

lol,so we sold the 60s fighters and fixed the 50s ones,wow,HOW SMART!!!!:D

The Mirages to Pakistan were actully in not so good shape however still good fighters, Pakistan has a MRF (Mirage re-build factory) and they upgraded and repaired them to high standrad, PAF operater over 150 Mirage the largest operator in world after France itself for over 4 decades they have alot of experience with these jets I doubt Lebanon could have made them air worthy on thier own.

Lebanon should set up its own military industry starting with small arms and then gradually move on to larger items.

When making military one must have 3 outlined aims.

1-Try to make all militray equipment yourself and upgrade and overhaul existing ones on your own

2-if number 1 isnt possible try acheiving your goal through collaborations and joint projects with another country

3-if 1 and 2 are not possible then only then you should buy from aborad with TOT (transfer of technology)

Turkey-Iran-Pakistan have this type of agenda.

As for Lebanese air force, Israel has 200 flying hours for thier pilots and best fighters in the world. If Lebanon want to stand a fair chance they need to send thier pilots abroad maybe France and buy Rafale--but obvoiusly that isnt a viable opition because of price and cost.

Good info about Pakistan...I think we are making progress on "#1" ...I dunno if you get even a F14 there like 15 mill each.. we can buy 10 ...not so unfeasible...but there has to be a removal of this unofficial ban..at this point it causes more harm..we need to make the army the best equiped and experince force in Lebanon 1st..I think the west is realising that now..and now Siniora has this to stress even more after the defeat

Lebanon's Defense Minister, Elias El-Murr is going to Russia later this month to discuss Russian military aid to Lebanon.

hope he gets us some Mig-29's that'd be hot

^^ ^^ oh no not more Russian equipment :nono:

^^well if we can't get equipment from the west the russians are the next best thing

^^EXACTLY

The result will be no different from the fate of the Syrian Mig29s.

If Lebanon is serious about defence they need air defence because I dont think they have enough infrastructure to support big air force and having a small one isnt practical. Israel has over 340 F16s alone you cant match fighter for fighter and the worlds best fighter pilots its a total waste so you have to go unconventional.

^^i'm not just saying Israel...internal threats as well, like the the fath el islam conflict, if the army had proper attack helicopters or jets that work could have been done in a week, not three months

^^Yes,i think we can do it,but is it that easy??like,is it just about money??

Canada to supply patrol boats to Lebanon
September 21, 2007


According to the London Free Press, the Canadian Foreign Affairs Department's Global Peace and Security Fund has agreed to supply Lebanon with fast patrol boats and jeeps.

“An agreement hasn't been reached, but they are talking about supplying the equipment,” said one source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

A Foreign Affairs official said four boats, to be constructed by an unidentified British Columbia company, are destined for the Lebanese customs service and will apparently not be armed.

“$5 million has been set aside from the fund in the current budget year for stabilization assistance for Lebanon,” the official added.

Several federal departments contribute to the fund’s $623-million budget, but documents say the money for the Lebanese stabilization program is coming from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), whose mandate is more attuned to digging wells in impoverished countries.

The patrol boat deal appears as part of an international effort to prop up the Lebanese government in its fight against Islamic militants.

-NOW Staff

^^is it just about money??

In most cases it is!

Canada to supply patrol boats to Lebanon
September 21, 2007


According to the London Free Press, the Canadian Foreign Affairs Department's Global Peace and Security Fund has agreed to supply Lebanon with fast patrol boats and jeeps.

“An agreement hasn't been reached, but they are talking about supplying the equipment,” said one source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

A Foreign Affairs official said four boats, to be constructed by an unidentified British Columbia company, are destined for the Lebanese customs service and will apparently not be armed.

“$5 million has been set aside from the fund in the current budget year for stabilization assistance for Lebanon,” the official added.

Several federal departments contribute to the fund’s $623-million budget, but documents say the money for the Lebanese stabilization program is coming from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), whose mandate is more attuned to digging wells in impoverished countries.

The patrol boat deal appears as part of an international effort to prop up the Lebanese government in its fight against Islamic militants.

-NOW Staff

That's freaking hilarious...

An unarmed customs patrol boat? Give me a freaking break...

Even the smallest and most basic patrol boats used by customs services are usually equipped with machine guns.

^^The Lebanese Army can ARM Them,Right??

^^The Lebanese Army can ARM Them,Right??

They aren't going to the Lebanese Army. They're going to Lebanese Customs.

If the Lebanese Army wanted to arm them, I doubt they have weapons that would be useful on a patrol boat.

Well they are good at Gerryrigging lol

U.S. Delivers 2 plane loads of ammunition & military material
Monday, 1 October, 2007 @ 3:41 PM

http://yalibnan.com/site/archives/2007/10/01/us%20arms%20for%20lebanon.jpg

Beirut - According to As Safir newspaper the American army has resumed its airlift of military supplies to Lebanon and has just delivered 2 plane loads of ammunition and military material.


Both planes landed at the Hariri International Airport in Beirut . One plane load was sourced from the US bases in Germany and the second was sourced from the US naval base in Spain.

In a direct effort to boost the Lebanese Armed Forces, the USA has increased its 2007 military aid package to Lebanon up to US$280 million from US$45 million last year, according to sources at the American embassy in Beirut.

There preparing for a new "battle"

U.S. Grants Police 60-million-Dollar Assistance Program

U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Feltman on Friday signed a letter of agreement with General Ashraf Rifi of the Internal Security Forces (ISF) for a $60 million U.S. bilateral assistance program with the Lebanese Government to enhance the capacity of the ISF.

Over the three year period of the grant, members of the ISF will be trained in specific investigation skills, learn new ways to maintain peace and security in Lebanon, and be provided with equipment, a U.S. Embassy statement said.

Feltman, in a speech at the signing ceremony, emphasized the United States' "support for the Government of Lebanon and its people."

He reiterated the $321 million dollars in grant assistance that the United States has given to the Lebanese Armed Forces in the last two years and said that the United States is "committed to supporting and strengthening the institutions of the Lebanese state."

"A strong army should be complimented by a well-trained and well-equipped police force, such as the ISF," Feltman said.

"The United States is dedicated to assisting the ISF in their development into a modern police force operating in a democratic society," he added.

Rifi said developing the ISF would "increase its capabilities to face challenges of the future."

"We realize that combating terror serves Lebanon first and it also benefits other states, near and far. Terror, no more, has geographic boundaries and is not restricted to specific political entities" he added.

Rifi stressed that the ISF "Irrespective of its capabilities cannot be changed into an army. The ISF cannot be strong if not supported by a strong army."

"The state can only depend on a strong army and a strong ISF,' he added.

Rifi vowed that we "would not stand idly by as some (parties) try to drag Lebanon back to civil war, we haven't forgotten how Lebanon was burnt out in 1975."



Beirut, 05 Oct 07, 19:05

U.S. Aid to Lebanon should come via pressure on Israel
Saturday, 20 October, 2007 @ 1:18 AM

http://yalibnan.com/site/archives/2007/07/25/leb_arm_212.jpg

Beirut - A senior Pentagon official kicked up a storm of suspicion in Lebanon when he told LBC television that the US military wants to build a "strategic partnership" with Lebanon's army.

Eric Edelman, the US undersecretary of defense for policy, rightly pointed out that a stronger Lebanese Army would reduce the need for resistance groups to keep weapons to defend themselves. But citizens of Lebanon are understandably wary of US offers of military assistance, especially since so much of it is coming at the 11th hour, long after Lebanese soldiers' blood has been spilled by both Israelis in the South and Islamist militants in the North.

A better way - and indeed the most cost-effective way - that the Americans could support Lebanon would be to for them to pressure their Israeli allies into doing the one thing that they have for decades refused to do: respect international law. That means, among other things, withdrawing from Lebanese territories that they have illegally occupied and halting their near-daily illicit incursions into Lebanese territories. After suffering decades of abuse from their southern neighbor, most Lebanese recognize that Israel probably will not take these steps on its own. In fact, according to a report in the Israeli daily Haaretz, Israel recently refused a recommendation by the United Nations to begin talks with Lebanon over the occupied Shebaa Farms, an issue that one senior Israeli official said "is off the record for good."

http://yalibnan.com/site/archives/2007/10/02/israeli%20f15%20jets.jpg

The meager $270 million in assistance that Lebanon has received from the US - in comparison to the more than $3 billion annually given to Israel - is not likely to be enough aid to build an effective military that can ward off Israeli aggression. Indeed, the best and only hope that the Lebanese have is that US officials might one day use the ample leverage that these hefty annual aid packages provide to pressure Israel into respecting international law. Such a gesture would buy a great deal more stability and security than any military partnership - without costing US taxpayers a single penny.

Source: Daily Star

Securing Internal Security
The ISF works to rebuild itself amid constant threats – and controversy
Benjamin Ryan, NOW Staff , November 12, 2007



General Ashraf Rifi inspects ISF troops. (AFP/Joseph Barrak)
Over the weekend, greater Beirut was put on high alert, with Lebanon’s strictest-ever security measures implemented, indefinitely, in the hope of preventing violence from breaking out and blocking terrorist attacks amid the ongoing presidential crisis. The alert will remain in place through the election of Lebanon’s next president – and its aftermath. The Lebanese army is leading the efforts for now, but sources indicated last week that the Internal Security Forces will take over as the parliamentary sessions begin. Indeed, the ISF will be playing a key role in keeping the peace throughout the alert, with units deployed at numerous flashpoints across the capital.

In the past two and a half years, the ISF has emerged as a robust force capable, for the first time, of leading an operation on this scale. Nonetheless, there has been much scrutiny and criticism of the ISF’s development by Syria’s Lebanese allies since the Syrian withdrawal in 2005. Opposition figures have accused the ISF of being a partisan tool of March 14 and the Future Movement in particular, citing the large numbers of Sunnis that have joined the ISF’s ranks in the past couple years.

Alain Aoun, an official with Michel Aoun’s Free Patriotic Movement, told NOW Lebanon in September that, “It’s well known that they are turning the ISF into a militia for the Hariri group. They created a body inside the ISF whose allegiance is to Hariri.”

Given the history of opposition accusations of partisanship and nefarious plots against the Internal Security Forces, it is worth examining the nature and extent of the changes that have brought the ISF where it is today. As the ISF takes to the streets to protect the capital, NOW Lebanon speaks with sources on the inside about the sometimes controversial renaissance of one of Lebanon’s most crucial security bodies.

A long-neglected force

Under Syrian rule, the ISF was systematically marginalized in favor of the Syrian-controlled army, which was itself neglected in the face of the ongoing Syrian military occupation. Prior to 2005, most ISF troops even went without weapons due to lack of funding. So while the rapid withdrawal of Syrian troops was a victory for Lebanese sovereignty, it left the country with something of a security vacuum.

Whereas the army technically reports to the president, the ISF reports to the interior minister and through him to the prime minister. Following the accession to power of the present March 14 ruling majority in 2005, the leadership of the ISF and Interior Ministry immediately set about instituting wide-ranging changes in an all-too anemic force.

Rebuilding from the ground up

Under Director General Ashraf Rifi, who was appointed during the interim government of Najib Mikati in early 2005, the ISF grew from around 12-13,000 to some 24,000 troops, and admittedly, many of these new recruits were Sunni. Before the expansion, Shia represented about a quarter of the troops. But while the percentage of Shia in relation to Christians and Sunnis has shrunken in the ISF, there has been no large exodus – indeed, there are new Shia recruits as well.

More significantly, the new leadership had to rewire the whole organizational structure.

Security sources, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the information, told NOW Lebanon that “the ISF needed restructuring all over, and there have been lots of changes on all scales. After Rifi came in, he changed all the old leadership; they haven’t been fired, but they are ‘frozen’ or sidelined within the ISF.”

Today, the various branches of the ISF all report to Rifi directly, with two exceptions. The “Interpol” and border patrol divisions both have some direct liaisons with General Security because they deal with foreigners and immigration issues. Security sources noted that this ambiguity has led to difficulties, as General Security is perceived as having pro-opposition leanings.

The source noted further, “It’s been difficult because everything has had to go around [Pro-Syrian president Emile] Lahoud, dealing directly with the government.”

Funding pours in

Utilizing hundreds of millions of dollars given by a variety of donor countries, the ISF greatly expanded its capabilities both in terms of training and equipment. According to security sources, in addition to the much-publicized $60 million grant along with other equipment and vehicles from the United States, the ISF received more than $100 million over the past two years from the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait reportedly donated spare parts and 250 new vehicles respectively, though the dollar values of these and any additional grants are unknown.

The European Union also donated a DNA-testing laboratory to the Interpol branch worth around $20 or $30 million, and sources estimate the dollar value of the German-sponsored border patrol team at around $20 million as well.

The US Embassy in Beirut told NOW Lebanon, “Thus far, the US government has provided assistance to a variety of different ISF units, and we will be providing a lot more. We have provided civil disorder management and other equipment to the ISF Mobile Forces, as well as police vehicles to several ISF units, which the ISF have used in carrying out their police duties.”

Training programs have also been expanded. According to security sources, “France, Britain, Spain and Italy have offered training in police procedures, and each month four or five trainees are sent over.” The US funds are also partially for training purposes.

The US Embassy reported that instructor training was planned on top of basic training, “so that ISF training will not always require international assistance.”

Protecting the state proves controversial

When asked to clarify his remarks about a “body inside the ISF whose allegiance is to Hariri,” Alain Aoun explained that he was referring to “the Moualamaat [Information Branch], created by [Youth and Sports Minister Ahmad] Fatfat when he was interim [interior] minister.”

The Information Branch, the intelligence unit within ISF headed by Lt. Col. Wissam Hassan, has been greatly expanded by Rifi. Its budget and activities are confidential – security sources noted that “it was not more than the publicly known funds, but it was significant. New vehicles, money and overseas training are involved.”

The Information Branch, like any intelligence bureau, has naturally been shrouded in secrecy. Its primary mission has related to pursuing armed and hostile groups within Lebanon and monitoring militia activity. In October, Hassan and his Defense Ministry counterpart General George Khoury held a press conference presenting their findings on militia rearming and reporting on their attempts to combat it. It was also the Information Branch that had been pursuing Fatah al-Islam leading up to the outbreak of conflict in Nahr al-Bared this past spring.

The major changes instituted within the ISF have been targeted at addressing three problems, according to sources.

“One is trying to secure the borders and ‘security islands,’ such as the Palestinian camps and Hezbollah’s military zones, where the government does not have control. Second, they have been concentrating on investigating the assassinations and working with the special tribunal process. Third is the restructuring.”

The restructuring is largely complete, and sources report that the initiative to secure the borders should be complete “within the next two months.” The special tribunal, of course, has a long way to go.

Addressing the issue of the “security islands” is another matter altogether. The Nahr al-Bared conflict illustrated the vast difficulties that extending government control to the Palestinian camps could entail. Looking to Hezbollah’s military zones, it must be recalled that it took a major war and UN intervention to even get the Lebanese army deployed to South Lebanon. The ISF is still much weaker than even the Lebanese army, and without a change in the political will to tackle these issues, there is little hope for further extending state control.

The opposition accuses the government of building a force to protect itself, and the proper response is, “of course!” The purpose of any domestic security force is to protect the proper functioning of the state, maintain order and enforce the state’s monopoly on violence.

If Hezbollah sees such a project as directed against it, this may in the end say more about Hezbollah than the ISF

Lebanon May Get Old U.S. Trainers

By Riad Kahwaji

Beirut — Lebanese and American military officials may skirt policy restrictions to provide the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) with old trainers and close-air-support helicopters, according to officials on both sides.

“For some reason, U.S. policy does not permit providing Lebanon with offensive weapons, especially air power,” said a senior Lebanese military official. “But there is no problem with providing Lebanon with trainers, and hence we have decided to go for this option as a start.”

The LAF, which relies on aid from the United States and other nations, cannot seek new and advanced trainers on its limited budget.

An official at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut confirmed that of the few options considered, the best available trainer was the TA-3 Skywarrior.

“About three TA-3 trainers would likely be made available to Lebanon in the near future, but we don’t really know when,” said the U.S. official, who asked not to be named because he was not authorized to give an interview. “We might be able to send another two or three TA-3s later on but cannot be sure at this stage.”

Another official at the U.S. State Department confirmed the possible TA-3 transfer to Lebanon and said this would be a modest but helpful start for Lebanon’s air capabilities.
The LAF has no operational fixed-wing warplanes. Its five remaining Hawker Hunter jets are too old, and parts have been hard to locate.

“We need cartridges for the ejection seats before we can send the Hunters back in the air,” said the official. “We have looked just about everywhere, but with no luck.”
Another 11 Mirage-3 jets have been grounded since the late 1970s.

The LAF official said the presence of warplanes is important for the morale of the troops and would give the military an edge against the other militias in the country.
“We know the Hunters are old and we know the TA-3 is old, but for us it would be better than nothing,” he said. “Besides, the trainers would be given to the LAF more or less for free.”

The TA-3 was a U.S. tri-service large trainer that could also drop bombs.
“So long as the trainer we will get can carry bombs and attack ground targets, we will be very happy with it,” the LAF official said. “We hope this would be the first step before the U.S. is ready to supply us with F-16s.”

However, another Lebanese military official said the LAF command was still reviewing available options with the Americans.

“In addition to the TA-3, we are talking about other models, like the TA-4J Skyhawk,” he said.

Some analysts believe that giving the LAF trainers that are too old, like the TA-3 and TA-4, would be a bad idea.

“The U.S. and other countries that are interested in helping the Lebanese military should provide it with equipment that is not obsolete,” said Qassem Jaafar, a Middle East defense analyst. “Besides, the LAF will face the problem of finding spare parts, [which] it is already facing with most of its old hardware.”

The LAF had converted some of its UH-1H utility helicopters into bombers and used them in August to blast positions of the al-Qaida-affiliated Fatah Al-Islam terrorists in the Nahr Al-Bared Palestinian refugee camp in northern Lebanon.

“At the U.S. military, we are now referring to the Lebanese Hueys as UH-1Bs — and the B stands here for bombers,” the American embassy official said.

Nizar Abdel Kader, a retired Lebanese Army brigadier general, said, “Lebanon must have an air force, and the international community must help it establish one in order to meet all the pending threats facing the country.”

Lebanese and U.S. military officials said talks were under way to deal with the LAF request for attack helicopters, and the two options being considered are the AH-1 Cobra and the OH-58 Kiowa.

“The Cobra is the LAF first choice but might face an obstacle with existing policy restriction because it is designated as an attack helicopter,” the U.S. Embassy official said. “The Kiowa, which is designated primarily as a reconnaissance helicopter with light attack capabilities, would be easier to pass the current export controls on Lebanon.”å

http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/7203/2203220ta3b20n870rs20rali2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

this is the plane !! TA-3 .............yeah, it's better than nothing !!!!!

Im not a military guy ..or know anything about the Mecahnics..but its just plane ugly lol Maybe we can paint it in red white and green...Just let us buy f16s already

i think this plane is from the 50's lol...i mean this is quite sad

^^Still,better than nothing

Yea at least HZ doesnt have an airforce (that we know of) lol

Continuous US support to the Lebanese army
November 14, 2007
Wednesday, November 14

The US army delivered yesterday 30 Humvee vehicles as a donation to the Lebanese armed forces (LAF), according to a press communiqué from the US Embassy in Beirut.

“By the end of the year, the US will have provided the LAF with 285 Humvees in 2007, with more expected in 2008,” the communiqué said.

The US army has already provided the Lebanese army with 24 five-ton recovery vehicles.

“These deliveries are part of the on-going support from the United States to the Lebanese Armed Forces and the government of Lebanon,” said the communiqué.

-NOW Staff

^^I wanna see those Humvees on Ground,does the Leb. Army use them???

are these Humvees equipped with heavy machines and do they come with armour? if they dont can Lebanese add on these extras.

And OMG I seroiusly cannot belive that those TA3 trainers are actully being sent to lebanon does lebanese not know anything about aviation their more of a threat to the pliot than the enemy that is just a insult.

^^lol @ 'they're more of a threat to the pilot' I totally agree!!

It's been reported that the Lebanese Army has rejected the insulting US offer to supply Lebanon with 50-year old trainer-bombers.

I say GOOD. Lebanon is not a trash bin.

Lebanon army trying to rearm and modernize itself
Monday, 3 December, 2007 @ 2:31 AM


By : Riad Kahwaji
Beirut - The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) is working to modernize and rearm itself amid political turmoil in the country and the region, according to officials and experts here.


On Nov. 23, parliament failed to elect a new president, leaving the seat vacant for the first time. The Lebanese government has assumed the duties of the president until parliament elects a new leader.

“Despite the political turmoil, almost all Lebanese regard the LAF as the best guarantee for the country’s future and stability,” a senior Lebanese military official said.

In September, Lebanon ordered 40 Leopard-1 tanks and 32 YPR armored infantry fighting vehicles with 25mm guns and spare parts that were “offered by Belgium at a bargain price”

The money will come from what remains of the $100 million donated by Saudi Arabia in June to help the military crush an al-Qaida-affiliated terrorist group called Fatah Al-Islam in northern Lebanon.

The official said Beirut is now waiting for Brussels to clear its own crisis — Flemish and Francophone parties failed to agree on a coalition government following general elections earlier this year — and officially endorse the transfer. Belgium will replace the Army-surplus vehicles with variants of the Mowag Piranha-III.

The LAF is still looking for fighter jets — perhaps Jordanian or Saudi F-5E/Fs [/B[B]]— to replace five old Hawker Hunters that have been grounded for years by a lack of spare parts.

“There are a number of old but fairly good jet fighters available in the market that the LAF could get for either free or very low prices, but the problem is that the best offers are American-built, which means Washington would need to give its approval for the transfer to Lebanon, and that is a problem now,” one Lebanese Air Force officer said.

A U.S. Embassy official here said giving Lebanon fighters & offensive weapons would require a policy review. The US embassy is concerned that these weapons could fall into the hands of Hezbollah, which is considered stronger than the Lebanese army .

Meanwhile, Lebanon will save money on advanced pilot training by sending five to 10 Air Force pilots to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has offered to provide training free of charge on its Hawk jets, the Air Force officer said. Such training would cost thousands an hour at European countries, as initially planned, the official said.
“The UAE has been very generous to the LAF. First, it gave nine U.S. Gazelle helicopters, and now the training,” the official said.

Discussions are under way with companies to overhaul and maintain five Bell-212 and three Puma helicopters.

Edelman: U.S. Wants Closer Military Cooperation with Lebanon

A senior U.S. defense official said that his government wants to strengthen military cooperation with Lebanon.
Visiting U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Eric Edelman "stressed the United States' commitment to enhancing the LAF's (Lebanese armed forces) capabilities," the U.S. embassy said.

"The United States will continue to support the government of Lebanon and the LAF as they continued to safeguard the peace, unity and sovereignty of Lebanon," a statement added.

Edelman had met earlier with newly elected President Michel Suleiman, Prime Minister-designate Fouad Saniora, caretaker Defense Minister Elias Murr, acting army chief Maj. Gen. Shawki al-Masri and parliamentary majority leader Saad Hariri.

The statement said they continued discussions of plans to strengthen the bilateral defense relationship.

Since 2006, Washington has committed more than 371 million dollars in security assistance to Lebanon.

Edelman's visit comes as Saniora works to form a government of national unity and bring an end to 18 months of political feuding that burst into deadly violence earlier in May and took the country to the brink of a new civil war.

After mediation by Qatar, the opposing sides agreed to put their weapons aside and work toward national unity.

Asked whether Washington would continue its support for the government if politicians from the Syrian- and Iranian-backed Hizbullah were included, Edelman said only that future ministers "will represent the Lebanese people."(AFP)


Beirut, 01 Jun 08, 08:54

He brought with him body armour...

US supplies Lebanese Army with ammunition

Saturday, May 31, 2008


BEIRUT: The United States supplied over 1,356,000 rounds of ammunition of various calibers to the Lebanese Army last week, a US Embassy statement said on Friday. The delivery, totaling over 376 tons, is part of the multi-year US Security Assistance program to Lebanon, the statement added. The assistance program includes modern weapons, vehicles, communications, and advanced training. The statement pledged that "US assistance to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) is continuous and robust." According to the statement, five days after the 2007 Nahr al-Bared battle began, the US delivered over 10 million rounds of all types of ammunition. The United States has delivered a total of over 12 million rounds to the LAF. "In response to the LAF's request to improve its transport capability, the United States has delivered 285 all terrain vehicles [humvees] to the LAF since 2006, and 300 more will arrive over the next year," the statement added. The LAF has also received 200 cargo transport trucks. In addition, the US has provided repair parts for all vehicles and critical repair parts for the LAF's helicopters. The statement added that US assistance to the LAF has also supplied the same front-line weapons that the US military troops are currently using, including assault rifles, automatic grenade launchers, advanced sniper weapon systems, anti-tank weapons, and the most modern urban warfare bunker weapons. Also included in the ongoing US support to the LAF is an advanced mobile communication system to secure Lebanon's borders. Coastal patrol craft will also be delivered to the Lebanese Navy and Air Force helicopters will be refurbished, according to the embassy statement.

^^ This is exciting... soon no one will be able to say that the LAF is weak and that we need a "Resistance"!

^^ Too early to say that

US donates 188 Dodge Chargers to ISF
June 5, 2008

On behalf of the US, US Charge D’Affaires in Lebanon Michele Sison on Thursday donated 188 Dodge Chargers to the Lebanese Director General of the Internal Security Forces, Major General Ashraf Rifi.

The US Embassy in Lebanon issued a statement saying that the donation was an addition to 15 Chargers and 60 Ford Explorers donated in April. 97 other vehicles will arrive in July.

“These cars are the same ones used by police forces in the United States, and we are happy to help the security forces … who are crucial for the security and sovereignty of Lebanon,” Sison said.

-NOW Staff

Maybe this thread should just be named "Intl' Support to the army and ISf" or to the security services. We will be getting aid more aid from europe etc

Hale conveys US offer of Cobra helicopters
September 5, 2008

http://www.nowlebanon.com/ContentPictures/cobra-helli-09508020657.jpg
A South Korean AH-1S Cobra helicopter fires missiles during a joint military exercise between South Korea and US at an army firing range in Pocheon, about 46 km (29 miles) northeast of Seoul on May 22, 2008. (AFP/JUNG YEON-JE)



During his latest visit to Beirut, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Asia and the Near East David Hale informed Lebanon of his country’s intention to provide the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) with military aid, sources told NOW Lebanon on Thursday.

This aid would include equipping the LAF with fighter helicopters, according to the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Hale submitted a list of US-made helicopters, at the top of which came the AH-1 COBRA fighter helicopter, to the Lebanese Ministry of Defense.

The list outlined the US Defense Department’s aid Lebanon as part of the plan aimed at consolidating the capacities of the Lebanese army to enable the LAF to preserve security, confront challenges and consolidate civil peace in Lebanon.

The sources did not rule out that the shooting of a military helicopter in the southern Lebanese village of Soujoud by Hezbollah gunmen may have been a preemptive message to internal and foreign parties.

According to such a message, any military aid provided to Lebanon should not alter the current field reality, and Hezbollah should not allow the disruption of the current balance of forces, which grants it military supremacy in Lebanon.

While a Hezbollah fighter has been reported as handed over to judicial authorities for the gunning, which killed Captain Samer Hanna, Hezbollah Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Thursday defended the shooting as a painful mistake, but nothing more.

Hale’s statement comes after his visit to Lebanon in late August, during which he met with Lebanese leaders, including President Michel Sleiman and Speaker Nabih Berri.

-NOW Staff

They'll probably give them to use without the weapons system ..what is up with the world

^ well the weapons system would be built into the helicopter, but they would probably offer the cobras without armament and ammunition. missiles cost hundreds of thousands a piece! i dont think the LAF would be able to use the cobras to their full potential. not with the present military budget.

U.S. Embassy: Washington will Provide Lebanon with 12 Unmanned Aircrafts

http://www.naharnet.com/domino/tn/NewsDesk.nsf/0/40e6c0bcb5a2b00fc2257598003d395b/Body/0.82?OpenElement&FieldElemFormat=jpg


The United States will provide the Lebanese army with 12 Raven unmanned aircrafts, the U.S. embassy in Beirut announced Tuesday.
A statement released by the embassy said the shipment will arrive in Lebanon in the coming months.

It said the provision of this aircraft was discussed during recent visits to the United States by Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) Commander Gen. Jean Qahwaji and Defense Minister Elias Murr.

The statement said LAF Air Force personnel are currently receiving training on the "Raven" unmanned aerial vehicle in the United States.

It said the Raven has an advanced, day and night electronic sensor providing immediate intelligence information and is an integral component of the LAF's "Sensor to Shooter" system that incorporates the armed "Caravan" aircraft and other LAF ground, air, and naval resources.

The "Raven" performs remote reconnaissance and surveillance, identifies targets, provides protection and security, and, reports on military operations in urban areas and the results of battles.

The U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Special Operations Command, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) are using the Raven in combat operations throughout the U.S. Central Command Area of Operations, the statement added.

It said the training course, funded by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), is one part of the comprehensive, robust U.S. military assistance program to Lebanon.

U.S. military assistance to Lebanon, which totals more than $410 million since 2006, includes aircraft, tanks, artillery, small boats, infantry weapons, ammunition, Humvees, cargo trucks, training, and parts for all equipment, including the helicopters.

Assistance focuses on needs the LAF leadership identifies, the embassy said.



Beirut, 14 Apr 09, 14:56

Source: Naharnet

NOTE: All OT and politically-infused posts have been moved to EAYOR! (That was over 100 posts in total!)

US delivers caravan combat aircraft to LAF
April 20, 2009

The United States Embassy in Lebanon issued a statement on Monday saying that the US delivered a caravan combat air support aircraft to the Lebanese Armed Forces on April 15.

The statement read that the aircraft was the latest equipment support delivery for the LAF in the ongoing US military assistance program to Lebanon. “The program is to protect the Lebanese people and borders, combat militants, implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 and extend government control over Lebanese territories,” the statement read.

By the end of 2009, the US would have given the LAF $189.1 million worth of military equipment.

The caravan would be an integral component of the LAF’s “Sensor to Shooter” system, which also incorporated the unmanned “Raven” intelligence aircraft, as well as other LAF ground, air and naval resources, the statement read.

It added that the caravan provided precise air to ground support to the army, particularly in urban environments. It was equipped with advanced day and night sensors, and “Hell fire” missiles, the same type used on the US “Predator” combat air support drone. The caravan is currently used by the Iraqi Air Force, where it was successful in the counter-insurgency campaign in Iraq.

-NOW Staff

^^ This is exciting... soon no one will be able to say that the LAF is weak and that we need a "Resistance"!


Sorry to rain on your parade kiddo, but unless these cargo transport trucks have built in advanced anti aircraft missles, then they will not do anygood.



There won't be a day when we can say that we DONT need the Resistance, without quotation marks, because notice how the US was very selective in what it had to give to the Lebanese forces. I mean SERIOSLY, all of those big numbers, 200, etc, they are transport vehicles. Refurbishing the airforce helicopters won't do anything in terms of protecting our country from Isreal. The Lebanese Army asked for Advanced Airplanes (I presume), Advance tanks, and advanced anti aircraft missles. But instead of fighter planes,they are going to recieve a cessna, and are recieving 12 model airplanes. Instead of Advanced tanks, the Army is supposedly gettin 60 Abraham tanks (or whatever they are called), which are also ancient, would not stand a chance to Israel's Merkava tanks, and moreover, HAVEN'T EVEN ARRIVED. We don't need anymore vehicles for transporting soldiers, khlosna ba2a, we have too many, that is all we have, I think we could boast infront of Israel about the number of vehicles we have.

I am not an extremist against the US, but any rational/sane person could tell that the US is trying to hurt us, more than it is trying to help us. When Russia pledged to help us, America became envious, when we asked for heavy weapons, General Patreous said NO! ISRAEL WOULDN'T BE HAPPY ABOUT IT.....America is trying to isolate our Army...nomore

America doesn't want any country to serve our Army except America itself, but when we ask for its help, it is unable to accept our demands.

For the US to help us, 3ala rase, bas shoo hal manti2? inoo wallah I am soo desperate to get rid of the Resistance, that I am willing to accept 60 Ancient tanks, more lightly armored trucks, a cessna, 12 model airplanes, and call my country "safe" ???

Isnt Russia also supplying Lebanon with 10 Figher Jets ? Im sure Russia will be a much better suppiler then America.

Sorry to rain on your parade kiddo, but unless these cargo transport trucks have built in advanced anti aircraft missles, then they will not do anygood.



There won't be a day when we can say that we DONT need the Resistance, without quotation marks, because notice how the US was very selective in what it had to give to the Lebanese forces. I mean SERIOSLY, all of those big numbers, 200, etc, they are transport vehicles. Refurbishing the airforce helicopters won't do anything in terms of protecting our country from Isreal. The Lebanese Army asked for Advanced Airplanes (I presume), Advance tanks, and advanced anti aircraft missles. But instead of fighter planes,they are going to recieve a cessna, and are recieving 12 model airplanes. Instead of Advanced tanks, the Army is supposedly gettin 60 Abraham tanks (or whatever they are called), which are also ancient, would not stand a chance to Israel's Merkava tanks, and moreover, HAVEN'T EVEN ARRIVED. We don't need anymore vehicles for transporting soldiers, khlosna ba2a, we have too many, that is all we have, I think we could boast infront of Israel about the number of vehicles we have.

I am not an extremist against the US, but any rational/sane person could tell that the US is trying to hurt us, more than it is trying to help us. When Russia pledged to help us, America became envious, when we asked for heavy weapons, General Patreous said NO! ISRAEL WOULDN'T BE HAPPY ABOUT IT.....America is trying to isolate our Army...nomore

America doesn't want any country to serve our Army except America itself, but when we ask for its help, it is unable to accept our demands.

For the US to help us, 3ala rase, bas shoo hal manti2? inoo wallah I am soo desperate to get rid of the Resistance, that I am willing to accept 60 Ancient tanks, more lightly armored trucks, a cessna, 12 model airplanes, and call my country "safe" ???


All I am going to say is that our Army should be our only Resistance. It is the job of the Army and only the army to resist foreign agressors. How can you say you are proud to be Lebanese if you feel your national Army should come second over a militia? And the U.S. and Israel said that because they are worried about our Army being attacked and having these weapons fall into wrong hands. They arent opposed to our Army.

All I am going to say is that our Army should be our only Resistance. It is the job of the Army and only the army to resist foreign agressors. How can you say you are proud to be Lebanese if you feel your national Army should come second over a militia? And the U.S. and Israel said that because they are worried about our Army being attacked and having these weapons fall into wrong hands. They arent opposed to our Army.

I agree with everything you've said except the part about Israel not being opposed to our army. They very much are opposed to our army and this is evident by the fact that they targetted the Lebanese Army in the 2006 summer war and by the fact that Israel has tried to undermine the US' efforts to supply even basic non-lethal equipment to the Lebanese Army.

They very much don't want to see the Lebanese Army armed by the US, not out of fear of the weapons falling into Hezbollah's hands, but because they don't want to see the Lebanese Army strengthened, period.

US efforts to arm the Lebanese Army over the past few years have drawn severe criticism from Israel and Israeli lobbies in the US. This has been documented.

Both Hezbollah and Israel don't want to see the Lebanese Army strengthened for different reasons.

The US believes that a strengthened Lebanese Army would help counter Hezbollah, but Israel does not share this view and their official policy is to isolate both Hezbollah and the Lebanese Army.

^^ You may be right about Israel's stance militarily, however their official policy toward Lebanon is still that they have no hostility toward the Army, government, or people and actually encourage 1701 and Lebanese Army presence extended to their northern border. Their problem is with extremists/militants/guerillas that pose a threat to their security.

^^ You may be right about Israel's stance militarily, however their official policy toward Lebanon is still that they have no hostility toward the Army, government, or people and actually encourage 1701 and Lebanese Army presence extended to their northern border. Their problem is with extremists/militants/guerillas that pose a threat to their security.

Israel has no such policy. They have stated time and time again that they hold the Lebanese government responsible for whatever Hezbollah or other groups do against Israel from Lebanon and that all infrastructure in the country is fair game. This policy has been hardened ever since the Doha Accords which granted March 8 veto power.

Don't forget that in the 2006 summer war, Israel targetted the Lebanese Army many times, the most well known being when Israel bombed a Lebanese Army barracks in Tripoli at night killing 11 Lebanese soldiers while they were asleep.

^^ That was war-time rhetoric. I am not an expert on Israel's security policies, but I do recall Livni and other Israeli officials stating time and again during the 2006 war that the only enemy is Hizballah and they have no problem with the government. They are also backers of 1701, which calls for support and strengthening of the Lebanese government's authority throughout its full territory.

i dont think that its a goiod idea for lebanon to be supplied by the USA, i mean USA is NUMBER ONE supplier of arms to Israel!!!

but if they are free its not too bad but they should have another prominant source of military supplys eg from China or Russia to set up arms manufacuring facility somewhere in the remotes areas of lebanon

^^ Many of the 100 or so posts I removed from this thread were yours. Let's not start this again.

^^ That was war-time rhetoric. I am not an expert on Israel's security policies, but I do recall Livni and other Israeli officials stating time and again during the 2006 war that the only enemy is Hizballah and they have no problem with the government. They are also backers of 1701, which calls for support and strengthening of the Lebanese government's authority throughout its full territory.

What I just highlighted of yours in bold was war-time rhetoric. Also, how can you say they are backers of 1701 when they are the main violators of this UN security council resolution?

Here is an article straight from the horse's mouth back in August:

Israel will hold Lebanon responsible for any attacks against Israel, in particular for any Hezbollah efforts to avenge the death of its military leader Imad Mughniyeh. This decision on Wednesday by the security cabinet represents a change in Israeli policy, after always firmly separating Hezbollah and the Lebanese government.

According to defense establishment recommendations adopted by the security cabinet, Israel will treat the Lebanese unity government, which is headed by Fouad Siniora and includes Hezbollah, as responsible for any event that takes place in its sovereign territory or events for which Lebanese nationals are responsible.

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1009610.html

They no longer distinguish between the Lebanese government and Hezbollah and while their official stance during the 2006 war was to distinguish between the two, in practice they did not...

^^ Thanks for sharing this. I wasnt aware that the policy was recently changed. I had heard some right-wing Israeli politicians say this, but I didnt realize it was now official policy (However, it is not the U.S. policy).

This is clearly a sad result of Doha.

^^ Thanks for sharing this. I wasnt aware that the policy was recently changed. I had heard some right-wing Israeli politicians say this, but I didnt realize it was now official policy (However, it is not the U.S. policy).

This is clearly a sad result of Doha.

Lebanese Cedar said they NEVER did distinguish between the Lebanese Government and Hezbollah and I agree. They killed 46 soldiers, bombed ALL the air force bases, and targeted the government owned Jiyeh power plant. Group punishment has always been the policy of the Israeli government. In some villages, they even dropped leaflets telling civilians that all moving cars are susceptible to attack then dropped leaflets saying they were about to bomb the area so leave!
And I think Doha was one of the best things to happen to Lebanon in a long time. If it wasn't for Doha, we would still have tents downtown, sporadic street clashes, no president, no functioning government, people shooting in the air every time a politician is about to speak and then the politicians spewing hateful and sometimes violent rhetoric, and political posters covering Beirut! Also because of Doha, even if March 14th loses the election, their voice isn't gone. They will still have veto power over any decision.

So in other words, Hezbollah's choice to the Lebanese is to either martyr ourselves under Israeli shelling or they would kill us in the street of Beirut!

So in other words, Hezbollah's choice to the Lebanese is to either martyr ourselves under Israeli shelling or they would kill us in the street of Beirut!
Remember, this is a thread about the Lebanese Army, not HA's domestic policies. The army/government shouldn't make decisions based on fear of Israeli retaliation. They need to debate and make choices based on whats best for Lebanon and its all of the people living within its borders!

HA is an efficient fighting force and can benefit the security of the country in many ways. They just need to quit being so politically biased! The reality is the army of Lebanon is weak. They were weak before HA was even formed and still wouldn't be able to strengthen itself even if HA was disarmed. Look at Jordan as an example. They expelled the PLO, signed a peace treaty with Israel, and maintain close ties with the West but they are still completely dependent on Western donations of outdated weaponry and planes.

Well the issue is then why is our army weak, why is hezbollah strong and how can we amalgamate the two?

Well the issue is then why is our army weak, why is hezbollah strong and how can we amalgamate the two?
Lebanon a highly educated population. I think the government need to start developing an independent weapons program (building tanks, planes, guns, etc). It'll create jobs and support the strengthening of the military

^^ Thanks for sharing this. I wasnt aware that the policy was recently changed. I had heard some right-wing Israeli politicians say this, but I didnt realize it was now official policy (However, it is not the U.S. policy).

This is clearly a sad result of Doha.

They changed their official policy on paper, but like I said, in practice, their policy has always been the same. The Lebanese government, the Lebanese Army, Lebanese infrastructure, and the Lebanese people are the ones that paid the price in the 2006 summer war much moreso than Hezbollah.

ISF members take part in training sessions in US

April 22, 2009

Internal Security Forces members participated in the US-sponsored Police Training Visitor’s Program from March 29 to April 10, a US embassy statement said on Wednesday.

The first time the ISF took place was in August 2008 and its third round of participation would take place in September, the statement continued.

The embassy’s statement also said that the “Lebanon Law Enforcement Visitor’s Program” would honor the highest-achieving students, instructors and officers who complete US-supported police training programs in Lebanon.

While in the US the group participated in police patrols, toured the “training centers of the bomb detection canine training unit at ATF, a US law enforcement agency, the National Parks Mounted Police Academy, and visited counter-narcotics units, detention units and emergency operations centers in Kansas City and Salt Lake City,” the statement read.

Special Weapons and Tactics [SWAT] teams performed search warrant implementation and demonstrated how to use specialized equipment, the statement read, adding that the group also visited several cities and learned about the local police’s community trust building programs.

-NOW Staff

:lock:

Thread re-opened after clean up.

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d184/rhmud/r2523486491.jpg

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d184/rhmud/r2944129559.jpg

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d184/rhmud/r3422485952.jpg

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden (L) speaks during a joint news conference with Lebanon's Defence Minister Elias al-Murr during a ceremony reviewing U.S. military weapons donated to the Lebanese army at Beirut international airport May 22, 2009. Biden said on Friday Washington would assess its aid to Lebanon depending on who won next month's election, but denied taking sides in a vote pitching a Western-backed coalition against Hezbollah.
REUTERS/Mohamed Azakir (LEBANON MILITARY POLITICS)

They left the first batch of m60 tanks, a plane, helipcoptes,hell fire missles and howitzers...they promised additional heavy weaponry....I read today Israel said they promised 40 fighter jets!

Assistance will depend on the elections. Bravo to democracy and USs blackmail.
A lot of people forget that USA sell lebanon to syria just before Gulf War I...
There is no willingness on their part. Just a very bad strategy...

Assistance will depend on the elections. Bravo to democracy and USs blackmail

Bravo. I would have never accused America's real intentions, if it wasn't for what Biden said, he himself gave it away.

I read today Israel said they promised 40 fighter jets!

Israel promised 40 fighter jets to Lebanon? :cheers::nuts: :lol:

they promised = US promised lol

^^ lol , nice one

He meant Israel said America would give Lebanon 40 jet fighters, which is untrue.

Bravo. I would have never accused America's real intentions, if it wasn't for what Biden said, he himself gave it away.

why would America give Lebanon more Lebanon if Hizbullah won the Elections ??
It already gave Lebanon a lot , unlike other countries , can you tell me What did Iran give To our Army ??? even one tank ??? nothing at all.

they promised = US promised lol

^^ lol , nice one

He meant Israel said America would give Lebanon 40 jet fighters, which is untrue.

Ah okay, I got it now. :)

Thats what the israeli media is reporting..From the Jerusalem Post


Washington to provide military aid to Lebanon
May. 23, 2009
AP and jpost.com staff , THE JERUSALEM POST

"Washington will provide Lebanon with fighter jets, helicopters, tanks and unmanned aerial vehicles, Israel Radio reported Saturday, following the meeting between Lebanese Defense Minister Elias Murr and US Vice President Joe Biden. "


The US has approved Turkey to reexpot heavy US weaponry to Lebanon.


Heres another article...

U.S. Plans To Send MBTs, Aircraft To Lebanon
Middle East Newsline
May 24, 2009
NICOSIA [MENL] -- The United States plans to send its first offensivemilitary systems to Lebanon. Officials said the administration of President Barack Obama has approvedthe delivery of missiles, artillery and main battle tanks to the LebaneseArmy. They said this would mark the first offensive systems to Lebanon sincethe 1980s. "The U.S. will evaluate the shape of its assistance program based on thecomposition of the new government and the policies it is advocating," VicePresident Joseph Biden said.

^^

America has made it clear it will not send heavy weapons, as it would endanger Israel.

This could be an attempt to persuade people to vote March 14, because Lebanese know that these alleged shipments of "fighter jets" would never come under a March 8 led government.

But either way, it will never come. They always come short with an excuse.

The only plane Lebanon is to get is a Cessna, far off from a Fighter Jet.

Une vedette des Douanes cédée à la marine libanaise


Cérémonie le transfert, à Beyrouth, le le 27 mai
crédits : MARINE NATIONALE



29/05/2009


L'ex-DF 41 Avel Gwalarn a été donnée par la France à l'armée libanaise. Une cérémonie s'est déroulée à Beyrouth mercredi pour marquer le transfert de la vedette. Y participait notamment la frégate de défense aérienne Jean Bart. Longue de 30.35 mètres pour une largeur de 5.8 mètres et un déplacement de 67 tonnes, la vedette a été construite en 1984 par les chantiers navals de l'Estérel, à Cannes. Avant son transfert, elle était armée par les Douanes et était basée à Brest. L'ex-DF 41 porte désormais le numéro 43 et a été rebaptisée Al-Kalamoun, du nom d'un village côtier situé au nord du Liban.
Elle devient, en taille, le troisième navire libanais, après l'engin de débarquement Sour (59 mètres) et le patrouilleur de 35 mètres Amchit (ex-Bremen 2 transféré par la police allemande en 2007).
_______________________________________________

L'ex-DF 41 Avel Gwalarn à Brest (© NAVIRES-DE-PECHE.OVER-BLOG.COM)

courtesy of
http://www.meretmarine.com/article.cfm?id=110383

^^
http://www.meretmarine.com/objets/500/18917.jpg

LOL Great! I was uploading it to photobucket :p Thanks!

LOL Great! I was uploading it to photobucket :p Thanks!


you're welcome I was curious to what it looked like! couldn't help myself. :lol:

what is that? A fishing boat? lol

^^ :rofl:

note that fishing boats in the background are actually bigger than this warship :D

^^ :rofl:

note that fishing boats in the background are actually bigger than this warship :D

:lol::lol::lol::lol:

This is what the United States are supplying Lebanon..................uffffffffff

This is what the United States are supplying Lebanon..................uffffffffff

France not the US, sides beggers can't be choosers.

^^ :rofl:

note that fishing boats in the background are actually bigger than this warship :D

It says Douanes Françaises on it which means French Customs. It's a patrol boat.

5:25pm U.S. Embassy: Washington donated 75 military Humvees to the Lebanese army and will provide 200 more by the end of the year.

http://www.nowlebanon.com/Library/Images/MainPagePictures/sleiman-petaous-420x.jpg
President Michel Sleiman (R) meets with David Petraeus, the head of the US Central Command, at the Presidential Palace in Baabda on Tuesday. (AFP)

Report: U.S. Proposes to Provide Lebanon with Light Attack Aircraft by 2013


The United States has reportedly announced readiness to provide the Lebanese army by 2013 with aircraft designed for light attack to improve its capabilities in reconnaissance missions and counter-insurgency operations.
As Safir daily said Friday the Pentagon has proposed to provide Lebanon with Hawker-Beechcraft AT-6 or Embraer Super Tucano planes.

The proposal came during talks between Lebanese army and U.S. military officials in Washington. A Lebanese army delegation is accompanying Defense Minister Elias Murr during his visit to the U.S. capital.

Despite the bad weather, Murr met with several U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Defense Secretary Robert Gates on Thursday.

Murr's meeting with U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon in New York was cancelled due to the snow storm slamming the East Coast. The minister and his accompanying military delegation return to Beirut on Saturday. As Safir said.

The secretary-general's spokesperson Martin Nesirky told reporters that the meeting was cancelled "because of the weather."

He didn't clarify whether the meeting was rescheduled or not.


Source: Naharnet
Beirut, 12 Feb 10, 10:32

As Safir daily said Friday the Pentagon has proposed to provide Lebanon with Hawker-Beechcraft AT-6 or Embraer Super Tucano planes.


These Planes are complete crap :cripes:

Embraer Super Tucano:

http://i48.tinypic.com/2ryhm4h.jpg

Hawker-Beechcraft AT-6:

http://i47.tinypic.com/hu3fch.jpg

lol

^^ Well whats better, these or the ones we have now? or how about the ones we are getting from other countries?

^^yeah maybe ur right .. but the first one has a face and the second one has a fan for god's sake... come on that funny ..

^^ I agree they look ridiculous, but the Cedar can always be painted over them...

There's actually a resurgence in propeller-driven light attack aircraft around the world. The U.S. which used them up until the Vietnam War, is considering reintroducing them.

Either way, this is all we can hope for from the U.S. They will never give us F-16s or F-15s for reasons that are obvious.

^^yeah maybe ur right .. but the first one has a face and the second one has a fan for god's sake... come on that funny ..

:lol: i prefer 1st one though,it's a light attack aircraft,what are you expecting ? :D

ok,so i understand why the USA doesn't want to supply Lebanon with some real Attack weapons,but how about some nice defensive anti aircrafts system?

Murr receives US promise of military aid
February 12, 2010

Defense Minister Elias al-Murr said Friday during his visit to Washington that he received an official letter from the US promising $267-million worth of direct aid to the Lebanese army, the National News Agency (NNA) reported.

The defense minister added that the US would reconsider the security measures imposed on all Lebanese travelling through US airports.

He described his meeting with US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates as excellent, saying that they discussed the arming of the Lebanese army. Murr added that a joint-training program between the Lebanese and US armies would begin next week.

Murr also met with John Brennan, US President Barrack Obama’s Deputy Assistant and National Security Advisor for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism, and Tony Blinken, the National Security Adviser to Vice President Joseph Biden, in the presence of Lebanese Ambassador to the US Antoine Chedid.

According to the NNA, Murr met with US Special Envoy to Lebanon George Mitchell and discussed with him the latest developments in the Middle East peace process.

Murr also met with US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Jeffrey Feltman, the NNA added.

-NOW Lebanon

:(
according to wikipedia

looks like the lebanese air force will be taking Mi-24s instead of the MiG-29s.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mil_Mi-24

And can someone change the title of this thread to International Aid to the LAF,please?

^^ done

:(
according to wikipedia

looks like the lebanese air force will be taking Mi-24s instead of the MiG-29s.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mil_Mi-24

And can someone change the title of this thread to International Aid to the LAF,please?


^^ According to what I read in today's newspaper Lebanon might no longer be receiving the MiG's at all, but they will be compensated for by more light-weight military aid by request of the USA.

:bash::bash::bash::bash::bash:
F it

Please keep in mind that Lebanon requested that Russia provide Mi-24 attack helicopters instead of the Mig-29 fighter jets which it cannot afford to maintain and operate.

Sleiman says Russia agreed to donate Mi-24 attack helicopters instead of MiG-29 jets

February 26, 2010

The National News Agency (NNA) reported on Friday that President Michel Sleiman concluded his visit to Moscow after meeting with the Russian Speaker of the State Duma Boris Grislov and visiting the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO University), where he was granted an honorary doctorate.

During a speech he made in the institute, Sleiman said that Russia agreed to donate to Lebanon Mil Mi-24 attack helicopters instead of the MiG-29 jets promised before. The helicopters are considered the most advanced models produced by Russia, he added.

According to Sleiman, Lebanon requested the Mi-24 aircrafts instead of the jets because its army is in extreme need of such helicopters, especially since they are equipped with rockets.

Sleiman thanked Moscow for the aid it provided the Lebanese army and its previous readiness to donate 10 MiG-29 jets to the Lebanese air force.

“Lebanon proved its ability to confront challenges based on consensus and dialogue,” he said, calling for setting moral limits to global capitalism.

Sleiman also voiced the importance of finding solutions to capitalism in such a way that preserves each society’s cultural and historical identity.

He praised the historical Lebanese-Russian relations and urged the strengthening of bilateral ties, especially because of the role Moscow can play in the Middle East peace process.

Sleiman said that Lebanon plays an important role in enhancing the UN and the Arab League, adding that Lebanon assisted in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights—which was adopted in 1948 by the UN General Assembly.

For decades Lebanon has been the cultural, medical, education, banking and tourism center of the Middle East as well as a platform for free opinion, he added.

According to Sleiman, Lebanon was able to liberate its territory in 2000 thanks to its people, Resistance and army solidarity. Lebanon is willing to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and gain back Al-Ghajar village, the Shebaa Farms and Kfar Shouba by all means, he also said.

The president praised Lebanon for its achievements last year, including being selected as the UNESCO World Book Capital and hosting several conferences and festivals.

Lebanon’s stability and domestic peace depends on the Middle East being at peace, Sleiman said, citing the 1991 Madrid Conference and 2002 Arab Initiative as platforms for achieving regional harmony. The former was a peace conference that aimed to jump-start a reconciliation process in the region, whereas the latter is a proposal adopted after the 2002 Arab Summit that calls for the creation of a Palestinian state along the 1967 borders.

However, Sleiman said the regional peace process is not advancing, blaming Israel for not having the political will to commit to peace. He urged the international community to pressure the Jewish state, especially to stop its settlement building and siege of Gaza. Sleiman also called on powers to set specific plans and deadlines.

According to the statement, Sleiman ended his visit to Russia on Friday to return to Beirut. “Once at the Baabda Palace, Sleiman received Interior Minister Ziad Baroud, who informed him about the latest preparations for the electoral reforms of municipal elections,” the statement added.

Last week the cabinet tasked Baroud with preparing a draft that would include all the municipal electoral law amendments and agreed to met on February 27 to decide whether to adopt it.

-NOW Lebanon

http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=149455

UAE donates ten PUMA aircrafts to Lebanese Army
http://www.wam.ae/servlet/Satellite?c=WamLocEnews&cid=1267001314152&pagename=WAM%2FWAM_E_Layout&parent=Query&parentid=1135099399852

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/54/Puma_-_801_Escuadron.JPG/800px-Puma_-_801_Escuadron.JPG
Source: Wikipedia

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c8/Raf_puma_xw236_arp.jpg/800px-Raf_puma_xw236_arp.jpg
Source: Wikipedia

This one is excellent in rescue missions.
The Russian Mi-24 are gr8 attackers. aren't they going to be delivered soon?

why would America give Lebanon more Lebanon if Hizbullah won the Elections ??
It already gave Lebanon a lot , unlike other countries , can you tell me What did Iran give To our Army ??? even one tank ??? nothing at all.

Sorry my phoenician amigo, I don't like to interfere in your own local affairs like our government does (unfortunately), but since I used to have a lebanese girl friend and lebanon and lebanese people have a place in my heart I would like to name some of the things Iran has supplied hezbollah with. here is a list of the things Iran has given to your army:

Shahin I (Ra'ad 1) [Missile] - Shahin 2 [Missile] - Fajr-5 (Khaibar-1) [Rocket] - Fateh-110 [a solid fuel propellant S2S Missile] - Zelzal 2 [Rocket] - Arash [Rocket] - Oghab [Rocket] - Mohajer 4 [UAV] - Ababil [UAV] and ...

there are some claims that Iran is going to supply hezbollah with Saeqeh Jet Fighters (which is a reverse engineered version of the US F-5 airplanes). I hope Iran would send Shafaq jet fighters instead because Shafagh is a copy of the US F-17 Jet fighters with more capabilities.

anyway, the US military equipment is the best in the world in many fields and I'd be glad if they supplied you with such equipments but the truth is you will never be able to use them if Israel attacks you. don't forget that the US knows all technical information of the things they give you and they know how to disable them if needed.

anyway, I hope lebanese people live in peace without wars or hezbollah messing with Israel. lebanese should know that we don't support what our government is doing and we don't want lebanese people to be endangered with wars.

^^ Thanx, i know :)

Shafaq jet fighters to the LAF and not Hizbullah would be gr8 though :D

^^ Thanx, i know :)

Shafaq jet fighters to the LAF and not Hizbullah would be gr8 though :D

you know, we have the same controversial topic inside Iran. people ask, If the Iranian Revolutionary Guards became stronger militarily, would it be good or bad for iranian people? (after the post election crackdowns the majority of the iranian people see the revolutionary guards as an obstacle for reaching their rights through peaceful means, as a result of that, any advancement of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps is seen as a double-edged sword by the people of Iran)

I think lebanon is for LEBANESE PEOPLE. it doesn't matter who is in possess of the military equipments, as long as they are defending your lands they are the good guys xD.

^^ Thanx, i know :)

Shafaq jet fighters to the LAF and not Hizbullah would be gr8 though :D

Hezbollah doesn't buy such huge equipment. Hezbollah's key to strength is stealth.

Not really LAF,but still

US embassy to supply Motorcycles to ISF
iloubnan.info - May 17, 2010

BEIRUT – In a statement issued on Monday, the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon said it would donate Harley Davidson motorcycles to the Internal Security Forces (ISF) in a ceremony set for Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at the ISF Mobile Forces Barracks in Dbayeh.

Sorry about the politics in the beginning of the article, it is related to this thread in the last part:

Courtesy of www.lorient-lejour.com

http://www.lorientlejour.com/category/Liban/article/659457/Grace_a_Hariri%2C_Washington_amorce_une_approche_assouplie_du_dossier_libanais.html

Grâce à Hariri, Washington amorce une approche assouplie du dossier libanais
Par Philippe Abi-Akl | 02/06/2010


Analyse
Selon toute vraisemblance, la démarche du président Saad Hariri à Washington ouvre la voie à un prochain défilé, dans la capitale fédérale, de pôles libanais de bords différents soucieux de plaider leurs points de vue propres devant le décideur mondial. Et désireux, en même temps, de se faire une meilleure idée des intentions américaines relatives au cas libanais. Pris à part ou dans un cadre régional. En privé, des opposants indiquent qu'il n'y a aucun mal à instaurer un premier couloir de communication avec l'administration Obama, du moment qu'il faut lui laisser le bénéfice du doute quand elle insiste sur sa volonté de s'ouvrir à tous. À ce propos, dès l'avènement de l'actuel président américain, son équipe avait apporté des modifications plus ou moins sensibles à la ligne libanaise suivie auparavant par Bush, en tenant compte des multiples critiques qu'elle avait pu susciter.
Histoire dans l'histoire, et pièce dans la pièce : durant la visite du président Hariri aux States, on y relevait la présence d'un cadre discret du CPL envoyé pour préparer une visite du général Michel Aoun. Visant certes à rencontrer, au cours d'une tournée élargie, les piliers de la colonie libanaise, mais également à arrondir les angles relationnels avec les dirigeants américains. On sait en effet combien les rapports se sont détériorés après le retour d'exil du général, son alliance avec le Hezbollah et sa jonction avec Damas. Une source aouniste informée indique que ce projet de visite est devenu plus facile ces derniers temps en raison d'un début de détente entre Rabieh et l'ambassade US au Liban. Dont la maîtresse de céans, Michelle Sison, qui doit quitter son poste à la fin de l'été, a repris le chemin de la villa pour échanger des vues avec le général. Cependant, cette même source tient à préciser que l'affaire n'est pas encore dans le sac et qu'il reste bien des points politiques à éclaircir avant que la visite de Aoun à Washington ne puisse être confirmée. Si tout va bien, conclut ce cadre, elle devrait avoir lieu à la fin de l'année.


Joumblatt
Par contre, Washington s'éloigne de plus en plus de Walid Joumblatt. Les Américains, indique un ministre informé, affirment ne pas bien comprendre ce terme de repositionnement que le leader de la Montagne avance pour définir un changement de cap qui paraît n'être à leurs yeux qu'un virage à 180 degrés. Une défection de transfuge passant dans le camp adverse.
Des membres de la délégation qui a accompagné le président Hariri ont tenté d'expliquer aux Américains les motivations de Joumblatt. Mais ils reconnaissent que leurs interlocuteurs n'ont pas du tout semblé convaincus. En réponse, ils se sont étonnés de voir des valeurs libanaises se précipiter à Damas après tant de sacrifices pour en lever la tutelle et l'oppression. Les Américains, ajoutent ces sources, ont autorisé l'ouverture française et européenne sur la Syrie, en vue de la dégager de son isolement international, à seule fin d'aider le Liban. Et ils ont eux-mêmes consenti, dans ce même but quelques avances, dont la réaffectation d'un ambassadeur à Damas. Étant entendu qu'en échange, la Syrie cesserait de s'immiscer au Liban. Or, relèvent-ils, voici que des Libanais se précipitent d'eux-mêmes dans son giron, pour la prier de priver de nouveau leur pays de sa liberté et de son indépendance. Le morceau leur semble donc trop gros à avaler, et ils ne sont pas disposés à se montrer avenants avec Joumblatt.
Toujours est-il que, selon les membres de la délégation cités, les échanges avec les responsables US confirment en clair qu'ils ont une connaissance pointue du dossier libanais pour la bonne raison que désormais ils reconnaissent son importance régionale. Ou, plus exactement, qu'ils s'alarment de son explosivité, pour user d'un néologisme qui dit bien ce qu'il veut dire. Et comme ils savent que tout est dans tout, et inversement, ils font attention aux moindres éléments de la vie politique libanaise, parce que, comme on dit, le diable est dans les détails. Ils n'ignorent pas non plus qu'il leur faut continuellement pousser à la roue, en soutenant l'État libanais par un flot continu d'assistances militaires, en équipements notamment, sociales, culturelles et économiques.
En fait, comme le confirme un ministre qualifié, Washington a décidé d'aller encore plus loin que les programmes d'aide militaire initialement prévus et qui ont fait l'objet d'accord bilatéraux. Le Pentagone, précise ce ministre, va en effet fournir à l'armée libanaise, à partir de début 2011, de l'armement lourd et des hélicoptères de combat dernière génération. Le but étant que l'armée devienne de loin la plus forte sur le terrain libanais, en vue de permettre à l'État de rétablir graduellement son autorité effective sur l'ensemble du territoire national. Sans plus de régions interdites aux forces de l'ordre, d'îlots ou de périmètres dits de sécurité. Et sans plus d'antres, notamment palestiniens, pour des groupuscules terroristes ou des gangs du crime organisé.
De leur côté, des proches du ministre de la Défense, Élias Murr, indiquent qu'un cycle de rencontres entre gradés libanais et américains est prévu pour que l'armée libanaise détaille ses besoins au fur et à mesure, en fonction de priorités déterminées. Ces contacts s'établissent sur la base de la confiance illimitée que les Américains ont dans l'institution militaire libanaise depuis Nahr el-Bared et le démantèlement à Tripoli, ou ailleurs, de réseaux terroristes.

^^ English Translation of the bolded part :)

The Pentagon says the minister, will indeed provide the Lebanese army, from early 2011, heavy weapons and helicopter gunships last generation. The goal is for the army to become by far the strongest field in Lebanon, to allow the state to gradually restore its effective authority throughout the national territory. Without more areas closed to the forces of order, or perimeters of islands called security. And no more caves, including the Palestinian factions for terrorist or organized crime gangs.
For their part, people close to the defense minister, Elias Murr, indicate that a series of meetings between Lebanese and American military officers is scheduled for the Lebanese army needs to detail as and when, according to identified priorities. These contacts are based on the unlimited confidence that Americans in the military from Lebanon Nahr el-Bared camp in Tripoli and dismantling, or elsewhere, of terrorist networks.

^^ English Translation of the bolded part :)

Hah, I'll believe it when I see it!

You will :)

ya3ne..better late than never, bas ye5do wa2ton, 3anajd. 2011? 5alliya 2111 fared marra.

ya3ne..better late than never, bas ye5do wa2ton, 3anajd. 2011? 5alliya 2111 fared marra.

Walaw, as long as Melkart's "you will" is accomplished.

Ino ya3ne seriously hala2, is it that you're blinded by your love for America? Why in the Hell would it want to give Lebanon "Heavy" weapons? It is the same country which is first to give Israel the green light to Carpet Bomb Lebanon in light of every hostile situation.

Unless by Heavy weapons you mean M60 Abrams tanks, which wouldn't stand a second infront of Israel's Merkave, or for what it matters, even a Hezbollah Katyusha missle.

Walaw, as long as Melkart's "you will" is accomplished.

Ino ya3ne seriously hala2, is it that you're blinded by your love for America? Why in the Hell would it want to give Lebanon "Heavy" weapons? It is the same country which is first to give Israel the green light to Carpet Bomb Lebanon in light of every hostile situation.

Unless by Heavy weapons you mean M60 Abrams tanks, which wouldn't stand a second infront of Israel's Merkave, or for what it matters, even a Hezbollah Katyusha missle.

because those weapons can end up in hisballah's hands! so America is hesitant to arm a country that is in essence controlled by hisballah. Only when the Lebanese government has the balls to take a firm stance against Hisballah and reassure the United States that Lebanon is an independent sovereign nation and that their weapons can not be accessed by hisb can the USA provide us with more technologicaly advanced weapons. However you can thank Berri and his allies for trying to stop any aid from the USA in reaching the Lebanese armed forces. You see not all the Lebanese are in alliance with the USA. Until Hisballah remains a threat; America will have to take cautious steps toward arming the Lebanese army. This isn't rocket science you know! :-)


P.S: I do love America and I suggest you do the same, since you reap from its benefits. It must be difficult to live in a country that you hate!

WTH are you talking about? I was born here! I don't hate it, but I'm not completely blinded by nationalism where I think that EVERYTHING my country do is for a good reason.

Hezbollah has never even touched the weapons of the Jeish so you're not fooling anybody for yourself. Such an assumption has no basis. -_-

America only wants its interests, not Lebanon's.



because those weapons can end up in hisballah's hands! so America is hesitant to arm a country that is in essence controlled by hisballah. Only when the Lebanese government has the balls to take a firm stance against Hisballah and reassure the United States that Lebanon is an independent sovereign nation and that their weapons can not be accessed by hisb can the USA provide us with more technologicaly advanced weapons. However you can thank Berri and his allies for trying to stop any aid from the USA in reaching the Lebanese armed forces. You see not all the Lebanese are in alliance with the USA. Until Hisballah remains a threat; America will have to take cautious steps toward arming the Lebanese army. This isn't rocket science you know! :-)


P.S: I do love America and I suggest you do the same, since you reap from its benefits. It must be difficult to live in a country that you hate!

Google Translator

Life= al Hayat :lol:

"Life": Harvey told Murr agreed in principle to supply the Lebanese Air Force aircraft from the kind of "hawk"

I learned the "life" that the British Defence Secretary Nick Harvey told Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Elias Murr agreed in principle to provide the Air Force Lebanese aircraft from the kind of "hawk" and that the British minister to visit Lebanon later at the invitation of bitter at the head of a military delegation to study the needs of the Lebanese army with his leadership, as well as for causing Lebanese officers training courses in the British army.

Pietton says no obstacle to French missiles grant to LAF
December 17, 2010

French Ambassador to Lebanon Denis Pietton said on Friday that there is no obstacle that prevents the French from granting 100 anti-tank missiles to Lebanon.

He told Tele Liban that the missiles will be given to Lebanon in February as part of a plan to support and equip the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).

He also said that Paris is at equal distance from all Lebanese parties, voicing hope that stability would ensue in Lebanon.

French decided to supply the LAF with 100 HOT missiles that will be used by the military's Gazelle helicopters, a Lebanese government official told AFP earlier on Friday.

-NOW Lebanon

^^ It should look like this

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c9/Aerospatiale_SA-342L1_Gazelle.jpg/800px-Aerospatiale_SA-342L1_Gazelle.jpg

U.S. halts arms shipments to Lebanon: report
05 April 2011

BEIRUT: The U.S. has quietly stopped providing weapons to Lebanon following the collapse of caretaker Prime Minister Saad Hariri’s government, according to American media Monday ...

http://www.zawya.com/story.cfm/sidDS05042011_dsart34%283%29

^^ the minister of defence wrote a very intriguing article regarding this issue... i'll if i can find it !!

قرأتُ بحزن كبير ما ورد في صحيفة "وول ستريت جورنال" الأميركيّة، عن تجميد المساعدات القتاليّة المقرّرة للجيش اللبنانيّ، والتي عملنا من أجلها طويلا، على امتداد وجودنا في وزارة الدفاع الوطنيّ.

هذه المساعدات، حاربنا جاهدين للحصول عليها، ليس لقيمتها العسكريّة فحسب، إنما لمدلولاتها في مقاومة أعدائنا، حيث يعتقدون بأنهم يملكون كلمة الحسم.

كانت إسرائيل مدعومة بلوبي صهيونيّ فعّال، تقف ضدّ حصول جيشنا على ما يحتاجه من أسلحة قتاليّة، ولكننا انتصرنا لمصلحة المؤسّسة العسكريّة.

إنتصرنا لأننا كنّا أصحاب قضيّة، وقضيّتنا هي دولة مركزيّة قويّة، عمادها الأساس - لا بل عمودها الفقريّ - هو جيش لبنانيّ قويّ وواثق بنفسه وفخور بتاريخه، وبطل في مكافحة الإرهاب والعدوّ الإسرائيليّ.

لم نتلهَّ عن ذلك، بمعارك جانبيّة، على الرغم من كثرة استدعائنا إلى معارك مماثلة. تجاوزنا افتراءات من هنا، وحروب إلغاء من هناك، حتى لا نسمح للّوبي الصهيوني أن يقدّم خلافاتنا وحروبنا الصغيرة وارتباطاتنا، كدليل يحول دون الحصول على هذه المساهمة الأميركية، في تسليح جيشنا اللبنانيّ.

ولكن يبدو أنّ كثيرا ممّا اعتقدنا بأنّه أصبح مكسَبا دائما لوطننا، بدأ بالتآكل، لأنّ هناك من يصرّ على "أكل" البلد!

إنتصر اللوبي الصهيونيّ على طموحنا - وبمفارقة تدمي القلب- في تلك اللحظة التي كان هناك من يصرخ في وجهنا بأنّه أطاح بما يسمّيه - زُورا وتجَنّيا- "المتآمرين على المقاومة في لبنان"!

من حقّهم أن يتصارعوا على الحقائب الأمنيّة والدفاعيّة، ولكن ماذا تفيد الحقائب، إذا كان حاملوها، مجرّد "وكلاء تفليسة"؟

من حقّهم أن "يتكابشوا" في صراع الأحجام، ولكن ما نفع كلّ الأحجام، إذا بات أصغرها أكبر من رفعة لبنان، وأهمّ من مصلحة لبنان، وأقوى من قوّة لبنان؟

قرأتُ خبر الصحيفة الأميركيّة بحزن كبير.

الحزن ليس على مؤسّسة عسكريّة، ستبقى الأقوى بفعل إيمان اللبنانيين بها وحكمة قيادتها.

الحزن ليس على معدّات قتاليّة سيُحرم منها جيشنا الذي أثبت في الملمّات الكبار، أنّه من أهم الجيوش القتاليّة.

إنما الحزن على بلد تديره سياسات المناكدة والتجنّي والأنانيّات، فيما يتفرّج البعض على خطة من شأنها أن تضرب مقوّمات قوّة لبنان ومناعته وممانعته وعزّته!

فالسؤال يبقى: من يخدم مصلحة إسرائيل؟

U.S. Makes Equipment Delivery to Lebanese Army at Hamat Airfield

http://i53.tinypic.com/xaxwch.jpg

The United States delivered on Tuesday equipment to the Lebanese army at the Hamat Airfield via C-130 aircraft, the first time an aircraft of this size and type has landed at Hamat Airfield.
U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Maura Connelly and senior Lebanese army and U.S. military officers were on hand to observe the delivery.
This delivery contained infrastructure for the construction of a 150 by 50 foot maintenance tent that the Lebanese army helicopter mechanics can use to conduct maintenance on helicopter engines.
The maintenance tent is part of a broader project to provide hangars for the army’s helicopter fleet at Hamat to protect them from high winds, and install flood lighting for the airfield to facilitate safer flying in periods of darkness.
This delivery comes as part of the United States’ ongoing support for the Lebanese army at Hamat Airfield.
The U.S. military has also helped the army with improving the training facilities at Hamat, providing over $1.5 million for the construction of a facility for army units to conduct military live fire training.

isn't the USA is the devil according to the march 8th puppets???

France freezes missile deal with Lebanon: report
July 21, 2011 03:10 PM (Last updated: July 21, 2011 03:32 PM)
The Daily Star

http://www.dailystar.com.lb/dailystar/Pictures/2011/07/21/french-missiles_634468574848286419_main.jpg

BEIRUT: France has frozen an agreement to supply the Lebanese Army with missiles and is re-assessing its role as part of U.N. peacekeepers in Lebanon, Al-Hayat newspaper reported Thursday.

Quoting French sources, the pan-Arab daily said the agreement to send missiles to the army, hammered out under the government of former Prime Minister Saad Hariri, had been put on ice while Paris monitors the work of the new Hezbollah-dominated Cabinet of Prime Miniser Najib Mikati.

In late 2010, France said it would supply the Lebanese military with 100 anti-tank missiles, despite concerns raised by both Israel and the United States.

A French official said the 100 HOT missiles, to be used by the Lebanese military’s Gazelle helicopters, would be delivered in early 2011 “with no conditions attached.”

The sources told Al-Hayat that France believed Mikati’s appointment had come about as a result of a decision by Syria and Hezbollah, but said that Paris would not turn down a visit by the Lebanese prime minister if he happens to be in Paris.

The United States and European Union have piled pressure on the Hezbollah-dominated cabinet of Mikati, urging it to abide by international resolutions, particularly ones related to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon – the U.N.-backed court probing the assassination of Saad’s father, Rafik Hariri.

On June 30, the STL handed Lebanon indictments and arrest warrants against four members of Hezbollah. Hezbollah denies involvement in the assassination and has vowed not to cooperate with the international court which it describes as a “U.S.-Israeli project” aimed at targeting the resistance group and sowing strife in the country.

The Al-Hayat report comes amid heightened demands in the U.S. congress that Washington curb support to Lebanon over concerns of Hezbollah’s reach in the Lebanese government and worries that military aid destined for the Lebanese Army might end up in the hands of the group and used against Israel, its key ally in the region.

Israel fought a devastating 34-day war against Lebanon in 2006, which claimed the lives of some 1,200 Lebanese, mostly civilians, and 160 Israelis, mostly soldiers, and destroyed much of southern Lebanon.

A House panel Wednesday pushed ahead on a bill to block U.S. assistance to Lebanon and other countries unless the White House reassures Congress that they are cooperating in "the war on terrorism."

The U.S. regards Hezbollah as a “terrorist organization” and Intelligence official’s estimate the resistance group has amassed an arsenal of over 40,000 short and medium-range rockets, which it claims can reach deep into Israel.

The sources told Al-Hayat that France was also reconsidering its role as part of the United Nations Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL), but stressed that a withdrawal of troops from Lebanon was not under discussion.

France’s Defense Ministry and top military officials, the sources said, believe the size of France’s contingent in Lebanon, which stands at 1,500, is too high and cannot be justified without a re-assessment of its mandate and whether there is a need for it to remain in the south.

France, the sources added, has been mulling over the issue of its troop presence in Lebanon since at least May of this year when an Italian contingent of UNIFIL was struck by a roadside bomb, wounding six of its members who were on their way to the southern coastal city of Sidon.

Read more: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2011/Jul-21/France-freezes-missile-deal-with-Lebanon-report.ashx#ixzz1Sk8Wj5yD

^^ France denied this

infos about lebanese army on this website : forums.lebanondefense.com