European Union Establishes Mission to Support Lebanese Army and Internal Security Forces

Brussels, October 12 (KUNA) -- The Council of the European Union announced today the establishment of a new support mission in Lebanon under the framework of the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces, and supporting state institutions in consolidating security and stability and restoring sovereignty. The mission’s initial mandate will last three years.

In a statement, the Council said the mission would contribute to supporting peace and security in Lebanon, strengthening state institutions, and achieving sustainable stability, in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, with a focus on developing the capabilities of the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces, and supporting border and maritime security.

The statement quoted EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas as saying that the foreign ministers of EU member states had agreed to launch the mission to provide advice and assistance to the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces, thereby “enhancing the state’s control over its territory, its border security, and its internal security capabilities.”

Kallas added that Europe is keen to support Lebanon’s future, emphasizing that “the mission represents an important step in developing security cooperation between the two sides and continuing to support Lebanese institutions in regaining full sovereignty and achieving lasting stability for the Lebanese people.”

The Council clarified that the mission would comprise military and civilian components operating within a unified political framework, with each component carrying out integrated tasks according to its respective mandate.

According to the statement, the military component would focus on providing advice and training to the Lebanese Armed Forces to enhance their capabilities in protecting land and maritime borders, including surveillance, reconnaissance, information sharing, combating smuggling, and improving operational coordination.

The civilian component would support the Internal Security Forces through specialized training and advice to enhance their operational capabilities and develop sustainable training programs, particularly in combating cybercrime and smuggling, as well as contributing to strengthening port security, including the Port of Beirut.

The Council noted that the mission would coordinate with EU institutions, member states, the United Nations, and international partners, and would complement European aid to Lebanon through the European Peace Facility. (End) A.R.N. / A.B.G.