US Senators introduced on Wednesday the ‘Preventing the Undermining of Lebanon’s Sovereignty and Economy (PULSE) Act’ that authorizes strong US assistance to the Lebanese people, its army and its economy, according to a press statement by the Senate’s Foreign Relations Committee.
The PULSE Act was introduced by Senators Ben Cardin, the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Jeanne Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Jack Reed, the chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee.
The Act authorizes strong U.S. assistance to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) as the legitimate defenders of Lebanon, provides humanitarian aid to displaced people, and supports vital state institutions, education, and investigative journalism.
Additionally, the Act supports the settlement of the impasse in the election of a new president who would prioritize the welfare of Lebanon’s inhabitants and offers U.S. aid to maintain the rule of law in the country.
“The current ceasefire (with Israel) offers a path to stability and prosperity for the people of Lebanon, thanks to the diplomatic efforts of the Biden administration,” Chair Cardin stated.
He stressed that the journey “will not be simple,” and that the United States and the international community must demonstrate “leadership and unwavering commitment” to take advantage of this opportunity.
For her part, Senator Shaheen considered that the stability of the entire region and a safer, more prosperous future depend on maintaining peace in Lebanon through the ceasefire agreement mediated by the Biden administration.
She also made clear that this bill reflects the United States’ “strong support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and continued efforts to address the dire humanitarian situation.”
“This affirms our commitment to stand with the people of Lebanon and Lebanese democratic institutions,” she added.
On his part, Chair Reed stressed that the United States is “committed to restoring stability and security for the Lebanese people.”
“This law will strengthen Lebanon’s capacity to defend its sovereignty and defend its population by giving the Lebanese Armed Forces strong support and training.”
“This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to building resilience and peace in the region,” Reed added.
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