NSDD 123 Next Steps in Lebanon

SYSTEM II UNC ASSIFIEL 90113 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON February 1, 1984 NATIONAL SECURITY DECISION DIRECTIVE NUMBER 123 Next Steps in Lebanon (TO) At an NSC meeting held January 26, 1984, the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, presented a plan for modifications to the U.S. military role in Lebanon. (to) The plan provides for possible actions the United States Government could take to assist the Government of Lebanon in responding to the changing threats and military requirements. The GOL faces three significant military problems: the need to increase size and effectiveness of LAF so that the GOL can extend its area of control; the need to deter or counter firing on greater Beirut from Syrian-controlled areas; and the need to improve GOL capability to combat terrorism. (I) In light of the JCS presentation and attendant analysis, the following actions which strengthen our ability to carry out U.S. policy in Lebanon are approved in principle: (e) Improve the LAF capability for counter-battery operations by repositioning the target acquisition radar presently in country, possibly providing additional radar capability, improving the flow of targetting information to the LAF, providing counter-battery training, and providing more modern artillery ammunition. (TG) To enhance the safety of MNF personnel, authority would be granted for U.S. naval forces to provide naval gunfire and air support against any units in Syrian- controlled territory in Lebanon firing into greater Beirut as well as against any unit conducting a hostile attack directly on MNF or U.S personnel and facilities. Existing authorities for the conduct of self-defense are reaffirmed. (TST Provide bunter-terrorism/counter-insurgency training to the LAF by deploying a company-size unit of Special Operations Forces to Lebanon to act as trainers. (s) b/3 Partially Declassified/Released on 5-17-91 under provisions of E.O. 12356 Iren-inard by S. Tilley. National Security Council