The PAGER Act would withhold certain U.S. funds from the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) until the Secretary of State certifies a set of conditions intended to limit Hezbollah’s political and military role in Lebanon and to reduce Iranian influence. Key requirements include that the Lebanese government and its cabinet not recognize Hezbollah, Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc, or Amal as legitimate political parties; that Hezbollah’s presence in Lebanon be expelled and disarmed in line with UN Security Council Resolution 1559; that Lebanese security forces increase their presence in Hezbollah strongholds to prevent a resurgence; and that the Lebanese military have no coordination with Hezbollah or Iranian-affiliated groups. The bill also designates an individual (Suhil Bahij Gharab) as a specially designated global terrorist, establishes a mandatory reporting regime on Hezbollah and Iranian influence in Lebanon, and bars UNDP programs that assist the Lebanese armed or internal security forces. A 60-day waiting period applies before funding restrictions take effect, and funding decisions can be conditioned on the certification by the State Department.
Key Points
- 1Withholding of U.S. funds: After 60 days from enactment, no federal funds may be provided to the Lebanese Armed Forces until the Secretary of State certifies that Hezbollah, Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc, and Amal are not recognized as political parties or allied with Lebanese ministers or officials, among other conditions.
- 2Conditions tied to Hezbollah and Iran: The certification requires that Hezbollah be expelled and disarmed according to UN 1559, that Lebanese security forces have an enhanced presence in Hezbollah areas, and that no coordination or support exists between the LAF and Hezbollah or Iranian-backed groups.
- 3Restrictions on U.S. aid to UNDP: No U.S. funds to UNDP may be used for livelihood programs that directly assist members of the Lebanese armed forces or internal security forces.
- 4Designation and sanctions: Suhil Bahij Gharab would be designated as a specially designated global terrorist under U.S. sanctions authorities.
- 5Reporting requirement: The Secretary of State, with the Defense Secretary and CIA Director, must submit a biannual report on Hezbollah’s and Iran’s influence in Lebanon, including within the Lebanese Ministry of Defense.
- 6Congressional oversight: The “appropriate congressional committees” are defined as relevant foreign affairs and armed services committees in both the House and Senate.