State of Free Lebanon

The State of Free Lebanon was a short-lived, unofficial entity that emerged during the tumultuous period of the Lebanese Civil War. Founded by Saad Haddad, a Lebanese military officer, it declared independence on April 18, 1979, and comprised the southernmost region of Lebanon. This separatist state functioned as a client state of Israel, with its quasi-military force, the South Lebanon Army, playing a key role in shaping its political landscape.

As a puppet state, the State of Free Lebanon operated under the influence of Israel from 1979 to 1984. The South Lebanon Army, led by Haddad, aimed to promote the interests of the South Lebanese population amidst the collapsing authority of the central government. Although it lacked international recognition, the State of Free Lebanon remained a significant factor in the region's dynamics during its brief existence, ultimately ceasing to function as a distinct entity by 1984.