A ceremony was held at the Naval Forces Command in Beirut to receive 3 patrol boats and 4 fast boats donated by the United States to the Lebanese Army, attended by Army Commander General Joseph Aoun, U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Lisa Johnson, and several military attachés. In his speech, the Army Commander affirmed that the donation would enhance and develop the capabilities of the naval forces, helping them carry out their assigned missions amidst the challenges they face, particularly in combating irregular migration by sea and providing future security for oil platforms.
He noted that the donation underscores the continued U.S. support for the Army, as well as other friendly nations and forces, demonstrating commitment to Lebanon's security and stability amid its ongoing political, economic, and social crises, along with the war in the south and its serious repercussions for all of Lebanon. He highlighted the vital role of the naval forces in protecting Lebanon’s maritime borders and combating all forms of smuggling and irregular migration, having detained many individuals in previous years who intended to head to Europe.
General Aoun considered that the determination and resolve of naval personnel to face all challenges and enhance their capabilities have enabled them to achieve many accomplishments, including Lebanon's accession to the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), the establishment of a new academy for training maritime crews, ensuring the readiness of operational crews according to international laws and standards, the creation of a search and rescue center, and the provision of fixed and mobile drones and radars, as well as operations rooms across several areas, in addition to ongoing cooperation and coordination with the naval forces of UNIFIL.
He added, "The exceptional economic situation currently affecting Lebanon has negatively impacted the army, which is facing significant challenges today. Maintaining security and stability amid deteriorating security and social conditions requires substantial effort from the military institution, while its members also endure the consequences of the economic situation. However, they perform their duties with full commitment and conviction in all tasks assigned to them on land, sea, and air."
He concluded by expressing gratitude to the United States for its ongoing support for the military in terms of armament and training, including financial assistance for soldiers’ salaries which lasted for seven months. He also thanked other friendly nations and armies for their support and, importantly, the trust placed in them knowing that the army is the backbone of Lebanon and the guarantor of its security and stability. "We will remain ready for all challenges, no matter their risks, as protecting Lebanon, its security, and its borders and resources is our priority and sacred mission."
On the other hand, the U.S. Ambassador delivered a speech confirming that the donation, valued at approximately $25 million, embodies the cooperation between the Lebanese and U.S. armies and the United States' determination to support the military institution, particularly the naval forces, in order to enhance their operations and empower them to protect maritime borders more effectively. She emphasized the U.S. commitment to long-term support for the Lebanese Army based on deep mutual trust.
She added, "Our partnership goes beyond this donation. In 2023, the U.S. pledged $130 million in Foreign Military Financial Assistance to maintain military readiness and expand the capabilities of the Lebanese army. American Coast Guard teams and security advisors have worked closely with the Lebanese navy to ensure their readiness to utilize these vessels in order to enhance their capabilities within Lebanon’s territorial and coastal waters."
She concluded by addressing the army personnel: "We commend your dedication and hard work for the people of Lebanon, as well as our ongoing partnership which includes training and exchange of experiences between our countries. Lebanese naval sailors have demonstrated that they will utilize the new vessels effectively to address the challenges within Lebanese territorial waters."
