NSDD 128 Lebanon

SYSTEM II WASHINGTON 90237 February 26, 1984 UNCLASSIFIED NATIONAL SECURITY DECISION DIRECTIVE NUMBER 128 Lebanon The situation in Lebanon is fluid. The USMNF will complete redeployment on February 26 , 1984. Damascus has proposed an agreement with the GOL in which the GOL will abrogate the May 17 agreement, and in return for which Syria would support a govern- ment of national unification and would guarantee a cease fire in Lebanon. However, to date a cease fire has not occurred, and no announcement of the GOL/Syrian agreement has been made. Therefore, we should remain flexible to cope with changes in the situation as they occur. With this objective, the following decisions are approved: Tenure of Military Training Teams (MTT) The U.S. military personnel assigned to MTTs with the Lebanese Armed Force will not be redeployed from Lebanon at this time. Conditions for the Delivery of U.S. Military Equipment Military equipment ordered and paid for by the government of Lebanon will continue to be delivered so long as we can be certain the materials remain in friendly hands. No new shipments will be dispatched pending clarification of the situation. Items now en route should proceed and further guidance sought closer to the time of arrival. For as long as there is the prospect of a cooperative relationship with the GOL, deliveries will be approved. In the event that these conditions do not obtain, appropriate steps will be taken to prevent delivery and seek to compensate the appro- priate Lebanese authorities for costs already incurred. Protection of Civilian Population It is clear that those who have assumed control of the various areas in Lebanon have responsibility for the security of the people in those areas. We must consider appropriate actions the United States would take if large-scale killing of civilians takes place. The Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, is requested to develop plans for such a contingency. Partially Declassified/Released on 5-17-91 under provisions of E.O. 12356- by S. Tilley. National Security Councit (IFT-1A25)