As the coronavirus pandemic snowballs across the globe with frightening speed, few countries have been as intensely affected as Lebanon. Already saddled by a severe financial crunch, political gridlock, and the cascading repercussions of the vicious civil war across the border in Syria, the Mediterranean country is attempting to formulate a cohesive response to the unprecedented crisis. On March 16th, the Government of Lebanon declared a state of emergency to slow down the spread of the virus. Public and private institutions, except for hospitals, pharmacies, and bakeries, have been ordered shut. The key to the success of the government strategy is the Lebanese Army. Units across the entire Force have been ordered to patrol urban areas, limit public gatherings and encourage citizens to stay in their homes. Authorities have deemed such drastic measures essential to the prevention of a catastrophic outbreak of the pandemic that is beyond the capacity of the country’s fragile healthcare system to handle.

To safely accomplish their mission, the units require thousands of disposable face masks and gloves. This protective gear is essential for the health of the soldiers as they prevent the spread of coronavirus. Working closely with US military teams and their Lebanese partners, our Middle East team identified an immediate need for at least 17,000 face masks and 120,000 disposable gloves. We need your support to fulfill this need. The Army is the backbone of Lebanon– the one institution that all of its diverse communities rally behind in times of crisis. While visiting Lebanon in 2016, the former Commander of US Central Command, General Joseph Votel, commended the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), noting, “The Force has demonstrated to enemies and friends alike that they are strong, fully capable of defending Lebanon’s borders, and have the support of the Lebanese people. The will and commitment of the LAF to protecting Lebanon only strengthens America’s resolve to stand shoulder to shoulder with our Lebanese partners as we confront these threats together.” This continues to be true to this day. Demonstrating solidarity with and steadfast support for our friends, partners, and allies is crucial to preserving American leadership and influence during, and after, times of global crisis. Our partners are counting on America to stand with them in their time of need. All the while, our adversaries seek to exploit any gaps that arise so they may degrade the partnerships and alliances upon which the US-led international order depends. Help us support the soldiers of the Lebanese Armed Forces, one of America’s most capable partners in the Middle East.