Saudi Arabia gets involved as Lebanon unravels

Riyadh’s promise of military aid to Lebanon – announced by Lebanese President Michael Sleiman on 30 December – heralds a serious Saudi effort to re-engage in Lebanon more forcefully, and bolster the March 14 political alliance that is supported by the Gulf states and the West. The $3bn grant, news of which followed French President François Hollande’s visit to Saudi Arabia (see page 4), is intended to enable the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) to buy arms and other equipment from France. The aim is to empower the LAF to improve security amid heightened tensions in Beirut, evidenced by the 27 December murder of former finance minister Mohamad Chatah.