Lebanon is facing an economic near-collapse in recent weeks, and fuel shortages are just the latest problem that’s entailed. Iran is reportedly rushing help to the Lebanese and Syrian coast.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who asked Iran for help, said that the ship had docked in Syria, and would transfer the cargo into Lebanon by Thursday. A second ship is also expected in the next few days.
Bringing in the fuel risks the US imposing new sanctions on Lebanon, but widespread shortages have left them with little choice but to seek help where they can get it.
Lebanon isn’t alone in this. Earlier in the year, Iran sent fuel to Venezuela, similarly against the wishes of the US. From the US perspective, Iran isn’t allowed to sell and they’re not allowed to buy. Since this is aid, it’s not clear the US can do anything but resent the shipments.
Lebanon is facing one of the worst economic crises in generations, and with its currency nearly worthless, they have few options for importing fuel or anything else.
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