NSDD 103 Strategy for Lebanon

SECRET 56525 SYSTEM II 91075 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON CHRON FILE National Security September 10, 1983 Decision Directive 103 SECRET STRATEGY FOR LEBANON (po Our objectives in Lebanon remain: (a) to restore the sovereignty of the Government of Lebanon throughout its territory, (b) obtaining the complete withdrawal of all foreign forces, and (c) ensuring the security of Lebanon's borders, especially the northern border of Israel. In support of our objectives, the mission of the U.S. contingent in the Multi-National Force is to support the Government of Lebanon in deterring hostilities by maintaining an active presence in the Greater Beirut area. In keeping with. the discussion of the Lebanon situation at the NSC meeting of September 10, 1983, the following actions are approved: - The U.S. Government should work closely and urgently with our MNF contributors and the Government of Lebanon to coordinate political and military efforts to promote our common objectives in Lebanon and present a united front. To this end the activities of the MNF contingents and supporting nával and air forces should be coordinated and mutually supportive to include response to hostile fire, intelligence, and reconnaissance activities. The concept of operations for these forces should be one of aggressive self-defense against hostile or provocative acts from any quarter. The U.S. contingent of the MNF should be prepared to assist in humanitarian efforts by the MNF and other international agencies under appropriate conditions to include a ceasefire, in relief of any beleaguered civilian entities in Lebanon. Our actions in this regard should demonstrate our impartiality in the confessional conflict. Our material and training assistance to the Lebanese Armed Forces should be accelerated and expanded as feasible and we should provide timely tactical intelligence and reconnaissance support. DECLASSIPED In Part Authority S.Tilley, USC (FS)-103515-1741 BY my SECRET NAIA Dote 8/30/91 Declassify on: OADR SECRET