American Diplomacy Toward Lebanon: Lessons in Foreign Policy and the Middle East

Lebanon's geo-strategic importance to the Middle East and global arena is greater than its small size suggests, and this book examines how American diplomacy has responded to the intersection of local, regional, and international factors in Lebanon. It focuses on key episodes in US diplomatic history, such as the Lebanese Civil War, the Cedar Revolution, and the spillover from the Syrian Civil War, and asks whether policy-makers had realistic and compelling goals, the right strategy, sufficient means, and capable diplomats.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Lebanon's significance to the Middle East and the global arena far exceeds its modest size, as it sits on the borders of Israel and Syria, playing a geo-strategic role in their competition and the alliances of America and Iran. This book delves into how American diplomacy has navigated the complex interplay of local, regional, and international factors in Lebanon. David Hale explores several pivotal moments in US diplomatic history with Lebanon, spanning from the country's independence in 1943 to the present day. He examines key events such as the Lebanese Civil War, the Cedar Revolution, and more recently, the spillover from the Syrian Civil War, within the context of the respective US government administrations and their foreign policy strategies. Hale raises critical questions about whether policy-makers had realistic and compelling goals, the appropriate strategies, sufficient resources, and skilled diplomats in their approaches to Lebanon over the years. Importantly, this study extends beyond Lebanon's borders to examine the broader implications and lessons for American foreign policy.

The Lebanese Civil War, which lasted from 1975 to 1990, was a pivotal period in Lebanon's history, marked by political instability, sectarian violence, and foreign intervention. The war was a result of a complex mix of factors, including regional tensions, political rivalries, and the power vacuum created by the Syrian withdrawal from Lebanon. The conflict had far-reaching consequences for Lebanon and the region, including the displacement of millions of people, the emergence of extremist groups, and the destabilization of the political landscape.

One of the key events during the Lebanese Civil War was the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafic Hariri in 1982. Hariri, a prominent figure in the Lebanese Christian community, was killed by a suicide bomb in Beirut, which was widely believed to have been orchestrated by Syrian agents. The assassination sparked widespread outrage and led to the formation of the Lebanese Forces, a Christian militia group that sought to protect Lebanon from Syrian influence.

The Lebanese Forces played a significant role in the war, particularly in the early stages when they were fighting against Syrian forces and other militias. However, the group also became involved in internal conflicts and power struggles, which contributed to the prolongation of the war. The conflict also saw the emergence of Hezbollah, a Shiite Muslim political party and militant group that emerged as a major force in Lebanese politics. Hezbollah was supported by Iran and played a crucial role in defending Lebanon against Israeli invasions and other external threats.

The war also had significant international implications, with the United States and other countries providing support to various factions in the conflict. The United States, in particular, became heavily involved in the conflict, providing financial and military assistance to the Lebanese government and the Lebanese Forces. The war also led to the establishment of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which was tasked with maintaining peace and security in the country until a permanent peace agreement could be reached.

The war ultimately ended in 1990 with the signing of the Taif Agreement, which established a new Lebanese government and ended the fighting between the Lebanese Forces and other militias. The agreement also called for the disarmament of all militias and the withdrawal of Syrian forces from Lebanon. However, the peace process was fragile, and the conflict continued to simmer in the years that followed.

The Cedar Revolution, which took place in 2005, was a popular uprising that led to the resignation of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and the end of Syrian rule in Lebanon. The revolution was sparked by the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafic Hariri, which was widely believed to have been orchestrated by Syrian agents. The revolution was also fueled by economic grievances and political corruption, which had become endemic under Syrian rule.

The Cedar Revolution was a significant moment in Lebanese history, as it marked the first time that a popular uprising had successfully overthrown a dictator in the Middle East. The revolution also had significant international implications, as it demonstrated the power of the people to challenge authoritarian regimes and demand political change. The United States, in particular, played a significant role in supporting the revolution, providing financial and political assistance to the Lebanese government and the opposition.

The revolution also led to the establishment of a new Lebanese government, which was led by Prime Minister Fouad Siniora. The government was tasked with rebuilding Lebanon's economy, restoring peace and security, and promoting political stability. However, the government faced significant challenges, including the presence of extremist groups and the ongoing conflict in Syria.

In recent years, Lebanon has been deeply affected by the spillover from the Syrian Civil War, which has led to the displacement of millions of people and the emergence of extremist groups in the country. The conflict has also contributed to the destabilization of the political landscape and the collapse of the Lebanese government.

The United States has continued to play a significant role in supporting Lebanon, providing financial and military assistance to the Lebanese government and the Lebanese Armed Forces. The United States has also worked to promote stability and peace in the region, including through the establishment of the Friends of Lebanon Group, which brings together countries from the region to support Lebanon's stability and democracy.

However, the conflict in Syria has also complicated the United States' approach to Lebanon, as the United States has been reluctant to engage directly in the conflict due to concerns about the potential for escalation and the involvement of extremist groups. The United States has also been concerned about the impact of the conflict on the stability of the region and the broader Middle East.

In conclusion, Lebanon's significance to the Middle East and the global arena is greater than its small size suggests. The country's geo-strategic location, complex political landscape, and historical significance have made it a focal point for the competition and alliances of America, Iran, Israel, and Syria. This book examines how American diplomacy has responded to the intersection of local, regional, and international factors in Lebanon, highlighting key events such as the Lebanese Civil War, the Cedar Revolution, and the spillover from the Syrian Civil War. The study also explores the broader implications and lessons for American foreign policy, emphasizing the importance of considering the local context and the broader regional dynamics in shaping American diplomatic approaches.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755652228