NSDD 64 Steps on Lebanon

DISTEM 11 90855 THE WHITE HOUSE INCLASSIFIED WASHINGTON October 28, 1982 National Security Decision Directive Number 64 NEXT STEPS IN LEBANON After careful consideration of the situation in Lebanon, I have decided that the United States must now take bold and timely initiatives to obtain the early withdrawal of all foreign military forces not later than by the end of this year. Such actions are essential if Lebanon is to become once more a sovereign, independent country and if the broader objectives contained in the U.S. peace initiative are to succeed. By exercising our leadership so far, we have already made substantial progress in restoring order to Lebanon. Furthermore, we know from our recent negotiations that there are strong incentives for all the occupying powers to withdraw their forces quickly. We must now move to exploit' these conditions. Our strategy for this next phase in the restoration of Lebanon has two principal objectives. First, we seek, and we will facilitate, the prompt disengagement and quickest orderly withdrawal of Israeli, Syrian and Palestinian armed forces from Lebanon. Secondly, we must strengthen the ability of the Government of Lebanon to control, administer, and defend its sovereign territory. To achieve these objectives, we must provide leadership and strong support to the Government of Lebanon. We must undertake, on a priority basis, a systematic program to rebuild the Lebanese security forces to maintain security within the country and improve the Lebanese Government's ability to assume its responsibilities as quickly as possible. We must also be prepared to contribute additional U.S. forces to a multinational force (MNF) . I cannot overemphasize the sense of urgency and importance I attach to this mission. I would like you to develop a diplomatic strategy and supporting plans to achieve our twin objectives. I would also like for you to provide me, as the negotiations unfold and we have a better idea of the mission of the force, estimates of the size, composition, recommended Declassified/Released on 5-17-91 under provisions of E.O. 12356 OADR CLASSIFIED by S. Tilley, National Security Council (FS7-1035)