The Silent Strength: The Role of the Lebanese Army in the Current Conflict

The renewed tensions in southern Lebanon, triggered by the ground offensive of Israeli troops and the subsequent confrontation with Hezbollah militias, also draw attention to an unexpected player: the Lebanese army. Surprisingly absent from the current conflict, the weakness of the Lebanese armed forces reflects the fragile state of the country, whose military functions more as a guardian of internal stability than as a defender of national borders. Since the civil war, the Lebanese army has established itself as a domestic barrier against sectarian tensions. With around 80,000 soldiers but no air force, it can neither stand up to Hezbollah nor withstand an Israeli offensive. Thus, its role is currently limited to protecting and supporting the civilian population. Four Lebanese soldiers recently fell victim to Israeli attacks. These useful, albeit limited, operations highlight the numerical and structural vulnerability of the army within the regional power triangle. A significant reason for the ongoing weakening of the Lebanese army is the sectarian tensions and the historical fragmentation within the armed forces. This situation, coupled with the lack of interest from both regional and international powers in promoting a strong Lebanese defense, has hindered the army's development. Analysts emphasize that despite modern equipment and financial aid, mainly from the USA, the LAF does not have a decisive role in southern Lebanon. Nevertheless, the army enjoys high confidence among the population due to its sectarian diversity. Its peace mission could become increasingly in demand amid sectarian migration flows. The chronic financial crisis since 2019 has also hit the Lebanese army hard. Soldiers' salaries have dropped significantly, and many are forced to take on side jobs. International support, especially from the USA and Qatar, provides relief but is not enough to make up for structural deficits. At the same time, external training has professionalized the LAF and created specialized anti-terror units, which have proven themselves in the fight against ISIS. Western partners are seeking new ways to strengthen the role of the Lebanese army through support for the UN's resolution process. This could alter the balance of power in the country long-term and restrict Hezbollah's sphere of influence. The uncertainties and political shifts in Lebanon could open up new, significant prospects for the LAF. A rare opportunity is emerging to establish the military as a national security actor, which could sustainably influence the balance in the region.