Amidst heightened tensions, United States Navy destroyer USS Ram docked briefly in Leban, US embassy in Beirut said on Sunday, amid heightened regional tensions. This was first US warship in more than 30 years to do so. USS Ram is a guided-missile destroyer and is an Arleigh Burke ship. 

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One-day goodwill visit

 vessel, capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, stopped on September 14 for a "one-day goodwill visit on sidelines of its participation in ongoing efforts to ensure freedom of navigation and free-flow commerce in eastern Mediterranean", a statement from US embassy said. 

US Ambassor to Leban, Elizabeth Richard, and Vice miral James Malloy hosted "an on-board reception for US and Lebanese officials", it ded. During reception, vice miral and ambassor underscored " ongoing commitment of United States to be a strong and enduring partner for Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), with goals of enhancing military-to-military cooperation and promoting security and stability in region", according to statement. "This remarkable US ship, docked in this remarkable Lebanese city speaks volumes about partnership between US and Lebanese militaries," Richard said.

Reports quoted Elizabeth Richard, as saying that ship’s presence is a “political mess,” and that U.S. relationship with Leban is t limited to military aid.  “We are committed to helping Lebanese people during this difficult ecomic period,” Richard said. 

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Tensions between US and Iran

US is currently engd in a stand-off with Iran and its Lebanese ally, Shiite movement Hezbollah, which has been slapped with US sanctions and classified as a "terrorist" organisation by Washington. Hezbollah is a key player in Lebanese politics, represented both in parliament and cabinet. movement is militarily involved in war in neighbouring Syria, and having sent fighters to aid of Iran-allied regime. In July, US imposed sanctions on three senior Hezbollah officials in Leban, including two lawmakers, in first such move against members of Parliament.

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At end of August, powerful US financial sanctions were imposed on Jammal Trust Bank in Leban, which was accused of acting as a key financial institution for Hezbollah, an arch-foe of US ally, Israel. ship's docking comes as tensions spike between Hezbollah and Israel, including an exchange of cross-border fire on September 1.

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