EU establishes new support mission in Lebanon, advisory to military forces

On Monday, European Union foreign ministers decided to launch a new support mission in Lebanon. The mission aims to advise and train the nation's military and internal security forces, according to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. The EU is committed to Lebanon's future, Kallas added.

The Council of the EU announced that the mission will have an initial three-year mandate and consist of both a civilian and military component. The military pillar will offer advisory support and training to enhance the Lebanese Armed Forces' capabilities, particularly in border and maritime security. Meanwhile, the civilian pillar will train Lebanon's Internal Security Forces in areas such as cybercrime and anti-smuggling.

Kallas revealed last month that over ten EU members were prepared to contribute resources and personnel to the mission. Further operational planning is anticipated before the bloc finalizes the launch of the mission's work. An EU official stated on Monday that the bloc intends to deploy personnel under the new mission in the coming months.

The EU's decision to establish this mission follows a study to strengthen Lebanese forces, with the aim of freeing up the Lebanese army to focus on disarming the terrorist group Hezbollah. The UN Interim Force in Lebanon's mandate is set to expire at the end of 2026, leading to a year-long drawdown and withdrawal.