European Union foreign ministers are set to approve on Monday the creation of a new, three-year security mission for Lebanon. The initiative aims to provide training and advisory support to the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces, helping the state assert control over its borders and territory as the UN’s “UNIFIL” mandate approaches its year-end conclusion.
European Mission Supports Lebanese State Institutions
The European Union’s newly established mission is designed to bolster Lebanese state institutions rather than replace the existing United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed that the mission—which will include both military and civilian components—is not intended to function as an operational substitute for the UN force currently deployed in the south. As of September 23, 2026, UNIFIL comprised 7,565 peacekeepers from 46 nations, including approximately 3,000 personnel from European countries.
According to the Council of the European Union, the mission will operate under a three-year initial mandate. Its primary objectives include supporting Lebanese defensive and security institutions to ensure long-term stability in alignment with UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The military pillar will focus on advisory and training roles, specifically targeting border security, maritime surveillance, and operational coordination, while the civilian pillar will assist the Internal Security Forces with specialized training in cybersecurity and port security, including operations at the Port of Beirut.
President Aoun Welcomes European Security Commitment
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed the decision, describing the move as a reflection of a firm European commitment to Lebanon’s security and stability and an expression of confidence in the nation’s legitimate military and security apparatus. Aoun emphasized that the mission would act as a vital support pillar for the state to extend its authority across all territories and regulate borders, aligning with the government’s stated goal of consolidating all weaponry under the control of legitimate national forces.
Through this new mission, which constitutes an important update to our security relations, we continue to support state institutions in restoring full sovereignty and building a lasting stability for the Lebanese people.
Despite the official welcome, the mission’s path forward remains complex.
Transitioning Beyond the UNIFIL Presence
The backdrop for this European initiative is the scheduled expiration of the UNIFIL mandate on December 31, 2026. Following this date, the UN force is set to begin a year-long, phased withdrawal. Kallas has explicitly stated that Lebanon must exert control over its entire territory, which includes the disarmament of Hezbollah, and emphasized that Europe does not want to see a security vacuum in the south.
Instead, its impact will be primarily technical and advisory.
