Independent Arabiya has published details of a draft bill introduced to the US Congress by Republican Representative Greg Steube, aimed at pressuring the Lebanese government and military to curb Hezbollah’s influence. The proposed legislation, titled "Preventing Armed Groups from Engaging in Extremism Act," calls for stringent measures against Hezbollah and its allies while imposing strict conditions on US assistance to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
Defunding the Lebanese Army
According to Independent Arabiya, the bill—also referred to as the "Pager Act"—proposes the suspension of US funding to the Lebanese Armed Forces unless the Lebanese government meets several key conditions. These include officially revoking recognition of Hezbollah and its allied political factions, such as the Hezbollah and Amal Blocs, as well as severing all ties with Iran.
The bill further requires the LAF to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1559, which mandates the disarmament of all militias in Lebanon. It obligates the Lebanese military to expand its presence in Hezbollah-controlled areas to prevent the group’s repositioning, cease all coordination with Hezbollah or any other organization designated as a terrorist group by the US, terminate all forms of collaboration with Iran while dismantling any Iranian-supplied military infrastructure or weaponry, and halt legal proceedings against US citizens in Lebanon, particularly journalists critical of Hezbollah or those who have appeared on Israeli media platforms.
Restrictions on UN Aid to Lebanon
Additionally, the legislation seeks to cut US funding for UN development programs that support the LAF and Lebanon’s Internal Security Forces. Within 60 days of its enactment, the US government would be prohibited from financing any such initiatives unless Lebanon complies with the law’s provisions.
Sanctions and Oversight Mechanisms
The bill also proposes new sanctions, including the designation of Suhail Bahij, the head of military intelligence in southern Lebanon, as a global terrorist under US Executive Order 13224. This executive order targets individuals and entities accused of supporting terrorism.
Furthermore, the legislation mandates biannual reports from the US Secretary of State, in collaboration with the Secretary of Defense and the CIA Director, assessing Hezbollah and Iran’s influence within the Lebanese government and the Ministry of Defense. Congressional committees on foreign relations and armed services would oversee the implementation of these measures.
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