Turkey Expands Influence in Lebanon Through Military and Humanitarian Aid
Turkey is increasing its influence in Lebanon through a combination of military assistance and humanitarian projects. Since 2015, Lebanon has been part of Turkey's foreign military assistance program, with Ankara pledging $7 million worth of military equipment in 2018. Amid Lebanon's ongoing economic crisis, Turkey has provided spare parts, ammunition, and food supplies to Lebanese security forces. Beyond military cooperation, Turkey's official aid agency, TIKA, has been active in Lebanon, supporting medical programs, Palestinian refugee camps, and cultural initiatives. Recently, TIKA and the Turkish Embassy opened a technology laboratory in Beirut to develop digital skills among children and teenagers.