Greek armored vehicles arrive in Lebanon: A boost to Defense Diplomacy

The transfer of military equipment donated by the Hellenic Republic to the Republic of Lebanon was successfully completed on Thursday, January 15, 2026. This initiative, carried out in the port of Beirut, marks a significant step in the strengthening of bilateral ties and the implementation of Greece’s defense diplomacy.

The operation was the result of close cooperation between the Greek Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, coordinated alongside relevant state agencies.

Specifically, a Hellenic Navy tank landing ship transported 13 M-113 Armored Personnel Carriers and 10 STEYR 680M 2.5-ton general-purpose vehicles, along with necessary spare parts for their maintenance and support.

The delivery follows high-level diplomatic engagements between the two nations.

It is recalled that the Greek Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias, had previously visited Lebanon and held meetings in Athens with his Lebanese counterpart, Michel Menassa, to finalize the terms of the military aid package aimed at bolstering the Lebanese Armed Forces.

The Greek Orthodox Presence in Lebanon: A Cultural and Demographic Overview

Beyond military and diplomatic cooperation, the historical bonds between the two nations are rooted in the significant presence of the Greek Orthodox community, often referred to locally as “Rum Orthodox.”

While the lack of an official census since 1932 makes precise figures elusive, 2025 estimates provide a clear picture of their standing in Lebanese society.

Demographic Statistics and Political Weight

Population: The Greek Orthodox community is estimated to comprise approximately 7.5% to 8% of the Lebanese citizenry, numbering between 300,000 and 350,000 residents.

Standing: They constitute the second-largest Christian community (following the Maronites) and the fourth-largest religious group in the country overall.

Political Representation: Under Lebanon’s National Pact, the community is permanently allocated the positions of Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Speaker of Parliament, holding 14 of the 128 seats in the National Assembly.

Geographic Distribution

The community is predominantly urban, with a concentrated presence in:

Beirut: Historically the largest Christian denomination in the capital.

Koura District: The only province in Lebanon with a Greek Orthodox majority.

Tripoli and Akkar: Maintaining a strong presence in the north.

Zahle: Located in the Beqaa Valley.

Understanding the “Rum” Identity

In the Levant, the term “Rum” (Greek) signifies the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Byzantine Empire rather than modern Hellenic citizenship.

Rum Orthodox: Under the jurisdiction of the Patriarchate of Antioch.

Melkite Greek Catholics: A distinct community (approx. 4.5%–5%) that follows the Byzantine Rite but is in communion with the Holy See.