U.S. Reportedly Withholding $105 Million In Aid For Lebanon

The US decided to withhold security aid to Lebanon following the resignation of Prime Minister Saad Hariri, amid concerns about Hezbollah's influence and potential Russian involvement. Hariri's resignation came after protests sparked by a proposed WhatsApp tax, which evolved into demands for government reform due to Lebanon's economic crisis. Despite efforts, Hariri failed to secure $11 billion in aid pledged by foreign donors. Protesters are now calling for new elections, but the timeline remains uncertain.

What was the main reason cited for the U.S. withholding security aid to Lebanon?

• Concerns about Hezbollah's influence

• Economic sanctions

• Political instability in the U.S.

• Lack of a formal request from Lebanon

What potential risk does the withholding of U.S. aid pose to Lebanon?

• Increased influence from China

• Increased influence from Russia

• Economic collapse

• Military intervention by neighboring countries

What event triggered the protests in Lebanon that led to Hariri's resignation?

• A natural disaster

• A new election law

• A proposed tax on WhatsApp calls

• A military coup

What were the protesters in Lebanon demanding after the initial trigger?

• More foreign aid

• Government reform and new elections

• A new constitution

• Increased military spending

What was the outcome of the proposed tax on WhatsApp calls?

• It was replaced by another tax

• It was dropped by the government

• It led to increased government revenue

• It was implemented successfully