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1974 Disengagement Agreement A UN-backed agreement between Syria and Israel after the 1973 war, establishing a buffer zone in the Golan Heights. Its repeated violations affect stability in southern Syria and Lebanon.

Aramco Saudi Arabia's national oil company and the world's largest oil company. Mentioned after its headquarters in Dhahran and facilities in Yanbu were targeted. Abraham Accords Normalization agreements between Israel and Arab states signed in 2020. They are now discussed as a possible framework for more countries, with Lebanon mentioned among candidates. Al-Qard Al-Hasan A financial institution affiliated with Hezbollah providing interest-free loans. It is under US sanctions and accused of funding Hezbollah's activities. Association of Banks in Lebanon A body representing Lebanese banks that negotiates with authorities on financial policies and banking laws. It currently objects to amended tax declarations. Ain al-Tineh The seat of Lebanon's parliamentary speaker in Beirut, used by metonymy for the speaker's position. It matters as a platform for major political statements. Abu al-Duhur Airbase A Syrian airbase in Idlib province. It was hit by strikes attributed to Israel and is at the center of controversy over Turkish influence in Syria. Al-Maashiq Presidential Palace The temporary presidential headquarters in the Yemeni city of Aden, used as the seat of the internationally recognized Yemeni government. It has been targeted by Houthi missile attacks. Axis of Resistance An informal Iran-led alliance that includes Hezbollah and other regional factions. The term describes military and political coordination among these groups. Advocate General at the Court of Cassation The highest position in the Lebanese Public Prosecution. He supervises judicial investigations and issues decisions in sensitive cases. Al-Shifa Hospital The largest medical complex in the Gaza Strip, located in Gaza City. It has been subjected to Israeli military operations during the war. Abha International Airport An international airport in southwestern Saudi Arabia. The Houthis claimed to have targeted it in a military operation, making it a flashpoint in the Yemen war.

Biosimilars Biologic medicines similar to approved originals, regulated by the Health Ministry to ensure their quality and safety in the Lebanese market. Bab al-Mandab A strategic strait between Yemen and Djibouti linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. Any tension there threatens global shipping and trade. Bandar Abbas An Iranian city and port on the Gulf, home to a strategic naval base, where a US drone was intercepted. Bank Saderat Iran An Iranian state-owned bank whose license to operate in Lebanon was revoked by the Central Bank of Lebanon. The move comes amid a US campaign to isolate Tehran financially. Balad Party An Arab-Israeli leftist party advocating equality and opposing occupation; its candidates face challenges before Israel's Supreme Court. BOT offer An investment model meaning Build-Operate-Transfer, where the private sector finances and operates a project before transferring it to the state. Mentioned in the context of a Qatari offer to reform Lebanon's electricity sector. B-1 bombers US long-range strategic bombers capable of carrying conventional and nuclear weapons, used in deterrence and strikes. base in Britain A reference to a US or joint military base located in Britain. It is mentioned in the context of potential Iranian threats against Western interests, linking Lebanon and the region to international tensions. Banking Reform and Reorganization Law A Lebanese law aimed at restructuring the banking sector and addressing losses after the financial crisis; it is debated over central bank powers and deposit protection. Bank Restructuring Law A Lebanese law aimed at addressing banks' losses after the financial crisis. It was passed by parliament, and the Constitutional Council recently annulled its third article. Baabda Palace The official residence of the Lebanese president in Baabda. It is mentioned in the news as a venue for official meetings and political statements. Basij Forces A paramilitary force under Iran's Revolutionary Guard, used for internal mobilization and suppressing protests, and sometimes involved in external operations. Banque du Liban Lebanon's central bank, responsible for monetary policy and financial stability; its independence is central to banking reform debates. Ben Gurion Airport Israel's main international airport, located near Tel Aviv. It is a potential target in any regional conflict, and its disruption affects air travel. border crossing An official point for the movement of people and goods between two countries, subject to security and customs controls. Badr Defense Pact A defense alliance announced in Qatar including Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan and Indonesia. It is presented as a regional bloc alongside the Mecca alliance, in a search for balance vis-à-vis Israel.

Commandos Military units specialized in rapid operations and special missions. The term was used in the context of protecting British nuclear facilities. Congressional elections US legislative elections held every two years. They were mentioned as potentially affecting the timing of US military decisions in the Middle East. Caspian Sea The world's largest enclosed body of water, bordered by Russia, Iran and Central Asian states. It is used for trade and energy transport and was mentioned in the context of restricting land and sea routes. caretaker government A government that manages day-to-day affairs after the resignation of the government or dissolution of parliament, without full powers. In Lebanon, it raises debate over its decisions, especially on war and economic matters. Court of Audit Lebanon's supreme audit institution, monitoring public spending and holding officials accountable for waste. Its reports and rulings are central to corruption cases and fines on ministers. Chief of Staff The highest military position in the Israeli army, overseeing operations and war planning. His role is central in disputes over striking Iran. CFB Wainwright A Canadian military base in Alberta used for training. A fire there killed soldiers, raising questions about the safety of military exercises. Cabinet decision of March 2 A cabinet decision banning Hezbollah's security and military activities, requiring it to hand over its weapons and limit itself to political work. It sparked wide debate over its implementation and legality. Cabinet decision of March 2 A cabinet decision declaring Hezbollah's military wing an outlawed organization. Hezbollah demands its repeal; the presidency refuses. Ceasefire Agreement An agreement to halt hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, effective November 2024, stipulating an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and deployment of the Lebanese Army. CICA Summit An intergovernmental forum to promote security and cooperation in Asia. Its summit was held in Baku, where delegations withdrew in protest against the Israeli president's speech. Council of Ministers Lebanon's executive authority headed by the prime minister, taking decisions on security, economy and other files. It appears in news when sensitive issues such as explosives or electricity are discussed. Change Camp A media label for a bloc of Israeli parties opposed to Netanyahu, including Bennett, Eisenkot, Liberman and Golan. It matters as the main rival to Netanyahu's camp in coalition formation. Camp Bucca A former U.S. detention camp in Iraq known for holding thousands of detainees, including figures who later became jihadist leaders.

Dahr al-Baydar A mountainous area in Lebanon on the Beirut-Damascus road, where a shipment of explosives attributed to Hezbollah was seized, sparking political controversy.

Emirati neighborhood A proposed Emirati housing project in Gaza also known as 'Green Rafah.' It is raised in discussions on reconstructing the Strip and its security arrangements. Eurobonds International debt bonds Lebanon issued in foreign currency. Lebanon defaulted on them in 2020, and they are now central to financial and legal disputes. EU Support Mission in Lebanon A new EU security mission to train the Lebanese Army and Internal Security Forces and support monitoring and anti-smuggling efforts. It matters to Lebanese readers because it comes as UNIFIL's mission nears its end. Erbil Air Base A military base in Iraq's Kurdistan Region used by U.S.-led coalition forces. It saw a U.S. withdrawal as part of ending Operation Inherent Resolve.

Framework Agreement The Framework Agreement is a diplomatic understanding aimed at regulating relations between Lebanon and Israel, focusing on Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon and restricting weapons to the Lebanese state. Lebanon is following up on its implementation with the US. Framework Agreement A US-brokered understanding between Lebanon and Israel aimed at security arrangements in the south, presented as a path to support implementation of Resolution 1701. Fordow An Iranian uranium-enrichment site built inside a mountain. It raises international concern because it is hardened and hard to strike militarily. Financial Gap Law A law aimed at determining and distributing the financial losses of Lebanon's central bank, a key IMF requirement. Financial Action Task Force (FATF) An international body that sets standards against money laundering and terrorist financing. Its assessments affect Lebanon's financial rating and its ties with international banks. FBI The US federal law enforcement agency responsible for major investigations and domestic security. It handles espionage cases and threats to US interests.

Gulf of Oman A gulf between Iran and Oman at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of global oil exports passes. It sees maritime tensions and incidents that affect energy markets and the region. Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) A massive dam Ethiopia is building on the Blue Nile, sparking a crisis with Egypt and Sudan over water shares. It is a major source of tension in the Horn of Africa. Glilot Base An Israeli military base near Tel Aviv housing intelligence and command units, considered a sensitive site in Israel. General Amnesty Law A law that drops penalties for categories of convicts or detainees. In Lebanon it sparks debate over which crimes it covers and its distinction between civilians and military personnel. General Amnesty Law No. 70/2026 A Lebanese law issued in 2026 granting amnesty for certain crimes. It sparked wide debate between supporters seeing it as a solution to prison overcrowding and opponents fearing impunity. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) A regional bloc of six Arab Gulf states that coordinates economic and security policies. Its positions on Iran and Gulf navigation matter to Lebanon and the region. Guardian Council An Iranian body that reviews legislation and vets election candidates. Any Iranian law needs its approval to take effect. G7 A group of major industrial economies that discusses international issues, including Lebanon and maritime security. Gaza City Gaza City is the largest city in the Gaza Strip and one of its main urban centers. In this article, it refers to the location where the airstrike targeting Shadi Abu Hasira's car took place. Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) An intergovernmental organization of gas-exporting countries. It holds periodic summits to coordinate gas policies, sometimes in Moscow.

Haredi An ultra-Orthodox Jewish current in Israel adhering to a strict interpretation of Jewish law. It makes up a large share of those exempt from military service, fueling debate over conscription. Houthis An armed group controlling parts of Yemen, launching missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia, Israel, and ships in the Red Sea. Hebron A Palestinian city in the West Bank, among its largest, with Israeli settlements in its heart. It sees repeated military operations and closures, making it a persistent flashpoint. Hezbollah A Lebanese Shia political party and armed movement with a military arsenal that participates in government. Its weapons are a major point of contention in Lebanon and the region. Haredi military exemption law A controversial Israeli law granting exemption from military service to students of Jewish religious seminaries. Disagreement over it is hindering government formation. Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham An armed faction in Syria formed in 2017 from a merger of groups; designated a terrorist organization by several countries.

Iodine tablets Tablets distributed when there are fears of radioactive release; they help prevent the thyroid from absorbing radioactive iodine. Their distribution raises public concern about a possible nuclear incident. Islamabad Agreement An agreement referenced in the context of regional security arrangements, mentioned as a possible framework for Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon within broader understandings. Israeli legislative elections Elections in which Israelis choose members of the Knesset, determining the government and prime minister. Their results affect Israel's policy toward Lebanon and the region. Iron Gate A new US task force announced by Central Command to expand the blockade on Iran to include monitoring land routes and the Caspian Sea. It is headquartered in Tampa, Florida. Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) An international system for classifying levels of food insecurity. Used in Lebanon to measure how many people face acute hunger and to guide aid. Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) A major Iranian military branch separate from the regular army, playing a central role in politics and regional security. It has wide influence in Lebanon and the region through proxies and military ties. Iranian rial The Iranian rial is Iran's official currency, which has sharply depreciated due to sanctions and economic pressures. Its decline raises prices and reduces purchasing power. Iran's Supreme Leader Iran's highest religious and political authority. He has a decisive role in war, peace and nuclear decisions, making him central to regional tensions. Islamic holy sites Sites holy to Muslims; in this article it refers to places like Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Ibrahimi Mosque in the West Bank that settlers enter. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) A trade corridor linking India to the Gulf and Europe via rail, roads and ports. It matters to Lebanon because including Beirut and Tripoli ports could boost its trade position. International Monetary Fund (IMF) An international financial institution that provides loans to countries in exchange for economic reforms; Lebanon has been negotiating with it for years. Israel Boycott Law A Lebanese law issued in 1955 that prohibits dealing or communicating with Israel. It sparks debate over its impact on Lebanon's international relations. indictment A decision issued by an investigating judge in Lebanon after investigations conclude, specifying charges and referring defendants to trial. It is awaited in the Beirut port explosion case and is crucial for accountability. International Implementation and Guarantee Force A proposed international force to succeed UNIFIL in southern Lebanon, tasked with guaranteeing security arrangements and monitoring the cessation of hostilities. Iron Gate Task Force A US task force formed by Central Command to block Iran's access to weapons and materials via land routes and the Caspian Sea. It matters to Lebanon as part of a regional escalation that could affect the area. Internal Security Forces The Internal Security Forces are Syria's police force. They are tasked with maintaining security and counterterrorism, and play a role in sensitive security files such as Daraa. internet cables Submarine cables that carry internet traffic between countries; some pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making them vulnerable to threats. International Finance Corporation (IFC) The World Bank Group's private-sector investment arm. It participates in financing reform projects in Lebanon within financial support negotiations. Islamic Consultative Assembly (Iranian Parliament) Iran's parliament, the legislative body in Iran. Its members are elected and it approves laws and the budget, and plays a role in foreign policy. Israeli Political-Security Cabinet Israel's Political-Security Cabinet is a small ministerial forum that makes sensitive security and political decisions, chaired by the prime minister. It matters because it decides war and peace issues affecting Lebanon and the region. IAEA Board of Governors The executive body of the IAEA, comprising representatives of member states, which makes decisions on nuclear verification files. Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding A preliminary agreement between Iran and the IAEA regarding its nuclear program, announced in 2021. It is referenced in ongoing nuclear negotiations. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) A UN agency setting civil aviation standards and auditing airports; its report flagged shortcomings at Beirut airport that could affect direct flights.

Jabal al-Arab (Druze Mountain) A mountainous region in Syria's Sweida province with a Druze majority. It draws regional attention over reports of Israeli military activity nearby.

Knesset elections Elections for the Israeli parliament, held roughly every four years. Their timing affects war and peace decisions in the region, including Lebanon. Kataeb Party A Lebanese Christian party founded in 1936 that participates in political and parliamentary life. It matters as an ally of the Lebanese Forces in opposition stances within government. Khamis Mushait Air Base A Saudi air base in the southwest of the kingdom. The Houthis claimed to have targeted it; it is a key military facility facing threats from Yemen. King Khalid International Airport The main international airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia's capital, and one of the largest airports in the region. King Fahd Airport An international airport in Dammam, eastern Saudi Arabia. Mentioned after 8 people were injured in an attack targeting it.

Litani River A major river in southern Lebanon, often referenced in the context of military operations and border areas. Likud A major right-wing Israeli political party and one of the largest in the Knesset. Its positions influence Israel's policies toward Lebanon, the Palestinians, and the region. Lebanese Forces Party A Lebanese Christian political party, one of Hezbollah's main opponents, participating in government and parliament. Lindsey Graham Act A US law imposing sanctions on Russia and Iran; President Trump has suspended implementation of some of its provisions. Lebanese Judges' Association A professional body representing Lebanese judges and defending judicial independence. It intervenes in debates over laws affecting justice.

MOAB (Mother of All Bombs) A massive non-nuclear conventional bomb, officially GBU-43/B. Used in Afghanistan, it is mentioned in reports about U.S. plans against fortified Iranian sites. Makkah Joint Defense Agreement A joint defense agreement between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey aimed at military and security coordination. It matters to Lebanon as it reflects regional alliances that may affect the balance of power. Midterm elections U.S. elections held midway through a president's term, renewing the House and a third of the Senate, with impact on foreign policy. Military Court A Lebanese court that hears crimes under military law, such as security offenses and crimes linked to the army. It has a government commissioner acting as prosecutor, and its cases raise debate over trying civilians. Mossad Israel's foreign intelligence agency, responsible for covert operations abroad. It plays a prominent role in confronting Iran and Lebanon, and its operations raise controversy under international law. Mount Pickaxe (Kuh-e Kolang) An Iranian nuclear site also known as Mount Pickaxe, considered a fortified underground facility. US and Israeli threats to strike it raise fears of regional escalation. monopoly on weapons The principle that the state alone has the right to bear and use arms. A central demand in the Lebanese debate over Hezbollah's weapons and security control. Mecca Alliance A defense alliance announced in 2025 between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey, aimed at collective deterrence. It matters to Lebanon as it reshapes regional power balances. Merkava tanks Israeli-made tanks used in ground operations. They were mentioned in reports about Israeli incursions in southern Lebanon. Military Investigative Judge A military judge who investigates crimes within the jurisdiction of military courts. Issued two arrest warrants in the Dhahr al-Baydar explosives case. MacDill Air Force Base A US Air Force base in Florida, home to US Central Command. It recently hosted US-sponsored Lebanese-Israeli military talks. Money and Credit Law A Lebanese law regulating the Central Bank and the banking sector. It is used to prosecute violations by the central bank governor. Ma'ashiq Presidential Palace A presidential and government headquarters in the Yemeni city of Aden. It was targeted by missiles, highlighting the fragile security situation in Yemen. Mechanism Committee A military and security coordination committee between Lebanon and Israel under UNIFIL auspices. Israel is pressing to cancel it and replace it with direct military-to-military communication. Marine Corps A US military force specialized in amphibious and rapid operations. Its deployment to the Middle East reflects military escalation and affects regional security. military exercise A military drill simulating combat scenarios on multiple fronts. The Israeli army announced a new exercise amid rising tensions.

November 27, 2024 Agreement The ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel that ended the 2024 war. It provides for Israel's withdrawal from the south and the deployment of the Lebanese Army and UNIFIL. Naval mines Explosive devices placed in the sea to disable or destroy ships. They threaten navigation and trade, and are used in conflicts to control waterways. Naval blockade A military measure preventing ships from entering or leaving a country's ports. Experts warn that imposing one on Lebanon could cut supplies and strangle the economy. National Social Security Fund (NSSF) Lebanon's official body providing health coverage and benefits to employees. Its decisions on consultation fees directly affect patients and doctors. Nabatieh A city in southern Lebanon and the capital of the Nabatieh Governorate. In the article, it is the area covered by black smoke from burning plastic and scrap in the Toul area. National Emergency Government A proposed Israeli government including multiple parties to address security challenges. It was called for by Gadi Eisenkot amid a political crisis. Non-refoulement A principle of international law prohibiting the return of anyone to a country where they face risk of torture or persecution. National Security Council Iran's top security and defense policy body, central to decisions on nuclear talks and military responses. Nasser Hospital One of the largest hospitals in the Gaza Strip, located in Khan Younis in the south. It has been subjected to Israeli military operations during the war.

Ogero Lebanon's state telecommunications authority, managing phone and internet infrastructure. Audit reports hold it responsible for illegal internet networks and state losses. Oslo Accords Peace agreements signed between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization in the 1990s. They established the Palestinian Authority and outlined self-rule arrangements in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Operation Inherent Resolve A U.S.-led international coalition military operation against ISIS in Iraq and Syria. The completion of the U.S. troop withdrawal was announced as part of ending it. Operation Peace for Galilee An Israeli military operation that invaded Lebanon in 1982. It led to the occupation of Beirut and the withdrawal of the PLO. Operation Al-Aqsa Flood An attack launched by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023. It matters to Lebanon as it led to an Israeli war on Gaza and Lebanon and wide regional repercussions. Ovda Airbase An Israeli airbase in southern Israel near Eilat, sometimes used to host U.S. forces. Operation Aspides A European naval mission to protect navigation in the Red Sea. It aims to deter attacks on commercial ships.

Pretoria Agreement The Pretoria Agreement is a 2022 peace deal that ended the war in Ethiopia's Tigray region between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front. It ended a deadly conflict, but its implementation has stalled and fighting has resumed in some areas. Persian Gulf A maritime region bordered by Gulf states and Iran, rich in oil and gas. It witnesses recurring military tensions that threaten energy and navigation security, affecting the Lebanese economy. Patriot A US advanced air-defense system that intercepts missiles and aircraft. Its deployment in the region is tied to tensions with Iran and affects the balance of deterrence. Pager operation An operation detonating pager communication devices used by Hezbollah, carried out in September 2024. It is cited as an example of cyber and sophisticated intelligence operations. Palace of Justice Beirut's main courthouse, housing the office of the public prosecutor and other judicial bodies. It has seen political visits in the Dahieh explosives case. Presidential Leadership Council An internationally recognized Yemeni governing body leading the legitimate government against the Houthis. It matters to Lebanon as part of the regional conflict linked to tensions.

Qeshm Island Iran's largest island, located at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz. It was recently struck by a US attack, highlighting its strategic importance in any confrontation over the strait. Quds Force A unit of Iran's Revolutionary Guard responsible for foreign operations and supporting Iran's allies in the region. It has wide influence in Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.

Ramat David Airbase An Israeli airbase in northern Israel used for military operations. It has been targeted by Iranian missile attacks, highlighting its role in regional confrontations. RAF Fairford A British airbase used by U.S. forces, from which American bombers launch missions in the Middle East. RAF Fairford A British airbase hosting US forces. It witnessed a security incident that London linked to Iranian coordination, escalating West-Tehran tensions. RAF Mildenhall A British air base used by US forces in England. It recently saw US aircraft relocated amid Iranian threats. Regional forum A framework for security cooperation among regional states, mentioned in the context of defense coordination against Iran. It includes security institution representatives, not necessarily governments.

Shadow Fleet An unofficial network of ships used by Iran to transport oil away from international oversight. It was targeted by new US sanctions. security belt A border zone controlled militarily by Israel inside southern Lebanon, which it says aims to prevent infiltration by armed fighters. Its presence raises disputes over Lebanese sovereignty and affects residents' security. Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) Israel's internal security agency, responsible for counter-espionage and counter-terrorism inside Israel and the West Bank, and involved in assassinations of Palestinian leaders. Southern Suburb (Dahieh) A southern Beirut area considered a Hezbollah stronghold, frequently targeted by Israeli airstrikes. State of Emergency An exceptional measure granting authorities expanded powers to restrict freedoms and impose restrictions. It matters to Lebanon as it is being considered amid security and economic tensions. Support War A term referring to Hezbollah's involvement in fighting alongside its regional allies, especially in support of Gaza. This involvement raises controversy over Lebanon's war and peace decisions. Shaybah oil field A major Saudi oil field that was the target of an attempted attack announced by the Saudi Energy Ministry. Separation Line A line separating the occupied Syrian Golan from the buffer zone, around which Israeli-Syrian tensions and violations occur. Sufa 53 line An Israeli military line in southern Syria that Israel seeks to impose as a zone of influence. It raises tensions with Syria and is considered a violation of the disengagement agreement. Shebaa A town and farms in south Lebanon on the slopes of Mount Hermon. Lebanon considers them occupied land, Israel treats them as part of the Golan; a long-running border flashpoint. Suez Canal An Egyptian waterway connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. Vital for global trade and navigation; any threat affects the region. State Consultative Council Lebanon's highest administrative court, hearing appeals against state and ministerial decisions. Its rulings are binding and can annul or suspend administrative decisions. Sabra and Shatila Camp A Palestinian camp in Beirut that witnessed a massacre in 1982. It matters to Lebanon as a symbol of Palestinian and Lebanese memory, and recently saw clashes and bombs. Strait of Hormuz A narrow waterway between the Gulf and the Gulf of Oman through which a large share of global oil exports passes. Any tension there raises energy prices and affects Lebanon and the region. security zone An area inside south Lebanon that Israel says it controls security-wise and refuses to withdraw from as long as Hezbollah remains armed. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation A regional organization for political, security, and economic cooperation founded in 2001. It includes countries like China, Russia, and Iran, and focuses on counterterrorism. Special Investigation Commission (SIC) An independent body within Lebanon's central bank tasked with combating money laundering and terrorism financing. Its decisions to freeze accounts are subject to legal conditions.

Taif Agreement The agreement that ended the Lebanese Civil War in 1989 and established the framework of Lebanon's political system; often cited in debates on arms control and reform. Training and Support Mission for the Army and Internal Security Forces A proposed European mission to train and support the Lebanese Army and Internal Security Forces. It aims to enhance the capabilities of Lebanese security institutions. Twenty-Point Plan A 20-point US peace plan announced by President Trump to end the war in Gaza. It matters to Lebanon because it is tied to post-war arrangements and the disarmament of factions. trust fund A financial vehicle that pools money from multiple donors to fund a specific goal, such as reconstruction. It helps manage international funding transparently in countries like Syria and Lebanon. Tyre A coastal city in southern Lebanon, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities, with UNESCO World Heritage archaeological sites. It has been subjected to Israeli shelling in recent conflicts. Task Force A unit formed for a specific, temporary mission, such as the US task force to prevent arms transfers to Iran. It matters to Lebanon as part of US pressure on Iran and its regional proxies. Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) An international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. Iran's potential withdrawal could escalate Middle East tensions and affect Lebanon. Tampa talks US-brokered military talks between Lebanon and Israel held in Tampa, Florida. They address halting strikes, an Israeli withdrawal and verification mechanisms.

US midterm elections US legislative elections held midway through a president's term, covering both the House and Senate, and influencing foreign policy. USS Abraham Lincoln A US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. News of its deployment near Iran or of a strike on it matters to Lebanon as a sign of regional military escalation. Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Shells and bombs that did not explode after bombardment and remain a lethal hazard. They threaten farmers and returning displaced people in southern Lebanon and disrupt the olive harvest. United States Central Command (CENTCOM) A U.S. military command responsible for the Middle East and Central Asia, conducting operations and coordinating with Washington's allies in the region. US Central Command (CENTCOM) A US military command responsible for operations in the Middle East and Central Asia, overseeing US forces in the region. UNIFIL The UN Interim Force in Lebanon, tasked with peacekeeping and monitoring the Lebanon-Israel border. Its presence is central in south Lebanon, and its mandate is ending soon, raising fears of a security vacuum. US midterm elections US legislative elections held midway through a president's term, renewing all House seats and a third of the Senate. They appear in reports as a possible timing factor for US decisions on Iran and the region. UN Observer Mission An unarmed international force that monitors ceasefires and reports. It is proposed as an alternative to UNIFIL in southern Lebanon. USS George Washington A US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier deployed to the Arabian Sea as part of US military reinforcements in the Middle East. UN Security Council Resolution 1701 A 2006 Security Council resolution that ended the July war between Israel and Hezbollah and remains the framework for security arrangements in south Lebanon and UNIFIL's role. UN Security Council Resolution 2790 A UN resolution setting the fate of UNIFIL in south Lebanon, ending its mandate on 31 December 2026. UN Security Council Resolution 2803 A UN Security Council resolution concerning Gaza, calling for facilitating humanitarian aid access. It was mentioned by G7 foreign ministers in their statement. UN Security Council One of the main UN bodies responsible for maintaining international peace and security. Its resolutions are binding, and Lebanon is affected by its discussions on UNIFIL and the southern border. US Senate The upper chamber of the US Congress, with 100 members (two per state). It confirms treaties and key appointments and influences foreign and defense policy. US House of Representatives The lower chamber of the US Congress, with 435 members elected every two years. It controls budgeting and legislation, influencing funding for foreign and military policy. UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) A British body that monitors and reports maritime incidents, especially in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, and is a key source of warnings to ships. US Department of the Treasury The US body responsible for imposing economic sanctions. Its sanctions affect Lebanon, Iran, and the region. United Torah Judaism An Israeli party representing Ashkenazi Haredi groups, part of the ultra-Orthodox political force alongside Shas. It matters because its stance shapes government formation and the Haredi conscription issue.

War Powers Act A U.S. law limiting the president's power to use military force, requiring notification of Congress within 48 hours and withdrawal within 60 days without authorization. It is cited in debates over presidential wars.

Yisrael Beiteinu An Israeli party led by Avigdor Liberman with a secular nationalist line. It matters because it refuses to sit in a government with Netanyahu or the Haredi parties.

Électricité du Liban (EDL) The public institution responsible for electricity generation, transmission, and distribution in Lebanon, suffering from severe financial and technical crises.