Posted by Ken Waldron on November 13, 2023, 2:15 pm
Seen a number of reports on UK special forces from Cyprus being in Lebanon training for something...now this:
Unusual Sightings: American CH-47F ‘Chinook’ Helicopters En Route to Lebanon’s Hamat Airbase
By Geeta Pillai
US Chinooks spotted at Lebanon's Hamat
In a puzzling turn of events, American CH-47F ‘Chinook’ helicopters were observed making a beeline towards Hamat airbase in northern Lebanon, a facility strictly under the operation of the Lebanese military and devoid of any official U.S. presence. The unexpected sighting has triggered a wave of speculation and raised questions about the nature of this movement.
Mystery Deepens : What Prompts U.S. Military Presence Near Hamat
Hamat airbase, nestled in the northern reaches of Lebanon, serves as a crucial asset for the Lebanese military. With no formal agreements indicating a U.S. presence, the sudden appearance of American military helicopters has left both local residents and international observers inquisitive. Sources close to the situation suggest that Lebanese authorities were caught off guard by the arrival, further intensifying the intrigue surrounding this unusual movement.
Potential Explanations and International Implications As speculation swirls, experts weigh in on possible explanations for the unprecedented arrival of U.S. Chinook helicopters at Hamat airbase. Some posit that it could be part of joint military exercises between the United States and Lebanon, fostering stronger ties between the two nations. Others, however, express concerns about the potential geopolitical ramifications, raising questions about whether this signals an unannounced shift in the strategic dynamics of the region.
The Lebanese government, in response to inquiries, has maintained a diplomatic stance, neither confirming nor denying knowledge of the American helicopters’ presence. Such reticence has only fueled public curiosity and led to increased scrutiny from neighboring countries and international watchdogs.
This unexpected development comes at a sensitive time for the region, with ongoing geopolitical tensions and the delicate balance of power at play. The implications of U.S. military assets appearing near Hamat airbase stretch beyond the borders of Lebanon, prompting neighboring nations to closely monitor the situation.
While no official statement has been released by the U.S. Department of Defense, unofficial sources suggest that the helicopters may be part of a broader regional security initiative. Speculations include support for counterterrorism efforts or intelligence-sharing operations with the Lebanese military, both plausible explanations given the current volatile climate in the Middle East.
Hundreds of elite UK Army Rangers train in Lebanon for rescue missions to save Britons trapped in Gaza Story by Mark Nichol • 5d
British troops are training up in Lebanon to rescue Brits trapped in Gaza A top military officer said The Rangers are 'posturing' for 'evacuation operations' General Sir Patrick Sanders stressed it was 'unlikely' for the UK to join the fight Hundreds of elite UK troops are training in Lebanon to rescue Britons trapped in the Middle East warzone.
The Rangers, who were formed just two years ago, will be expected to mount an airlift operation alongside the Royal Air Force. Detailed plans remain secret to ensure an element of surprise, but the Army's top officer has provided an overview.
The Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Patrick Sanders, confirmed British troops were 'posturing' for 'non-combatant evacuation operations' in parts of the region.
The role could include saving Britons trapped in Gaza since Israel declared war on the Hamas terrorists who slaughtered 1,400 people on October 7. Fears persist the terror group could use foreign citizens, Britons and US passport holders as human shields. Despite the Rafah Crossing from Gaza into Egypt being partially opened, many UK citizens have been unable to get out.
There is also the risk that Britons in countries such as Lebanon could be taken hostage by the likes of Iran-backed Hezbollah.
General Sir Patrick told MPs yesterday: 'Clearly there is a prospect, if the conflict does expand, of a non-combatant evacuation operation. We are posturing ourselves for that. We are [also] exploiting the network we have, so, for example, we have our special operations forces, the Rangers, in Lebanon. They have built up a very close relationship with Lebanese armed forces.
'That provides an insight and influence on to Lebanese decision-making and seeing things from the other side of the northern border, which clearly concerns Israel.'
He added the UK was also seeking to reassure partner nations and prepare for humanitarian operations such as setting up field hospitals and delivering aid supplies.
General Sir Patrick stressed it was unlikely UK troops would be 'drawn into combat or conflict' directly and that military planners would 'seek to avert that'. An airlift could be mounted alongside Lebanon's air assault troops who have trained with British airborne forces. Much of the training has taken place in the country's Bekaa Valley.
The presence of British troops so close to Israel is also intended to 'deter' Iran from entering the conflict directly, General Sir Patrick told the Commons defence committee. The Rangers recruit from across the British Army and are selected for their emotional intelligence and self-reliance.
They are used in discreet roles in unstable regions of the world.
I was thinking if Hez puts too much pressure on Israel, then UKUS with Lebanese allies might create a little civil war behind them...or as you say stir it up in Syria.