Syrians are fleeing their war-torn nation by the millions. Neighboring nations—Turkey, Jordan and Lebanon—are seeking help from the West as they struggle to keep up with the drastic influx of refugees.

In a recent visit to Lebanon, German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen expressed her concern and support for the over-saturated nation that has gained over 1 million Syrian refugees, almost a 25 percent increase in the nation’s population.

Von der Leyen stated that Germany wants to do what ever it can to help “stabilize the situation” in Syria and Lebanon. “Germany has expressed its financial support to Lebanon in order to solve the problem of the refugees,” she continued.

As part of her trip, the defense minister also visited German troops serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (unifil). Germany’s contribution to the force is small, fewer than 200 soldiers and some maritime vessels, but their presence in Lebanon is important to understand the future of Middle Eastern affairs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9W5sa7Yfe8&feature=youtu.be

Ursula von der Leyen met with Lebanese officials and visits German troops in Beirut, April 24, 2014.

With America currently withdrawing from the region, nations that oppose Iranian-backed leaders like Syrian President Bashar Assad have to look elsewhere for support. Russia’s endorsement of Assad leaves Europe as the only alternative. But this transition will not be smooth.

Trumpet editor in chief Gerald Flurry wrote in the most recent edition of the Philadelphia Trumpet, “Europe coming into the Middle East is going to infuriate Iran.” Iran is closely watching Europe’s moves in the Middle East. The defense minister’s visit simply puts a face to what is becoming a close friendship that will only further enrage Iran.

To see the incredible depth of the events taking place in Lebanon today, and why Germany is so interested, read Mr. Flurry’s recent article “Why You Need to Watch Lebanon.”