The European Union is intensifying preparations for a potential new peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, with operational planning currently underway. The bloc aims to launch this new mission by early 2027. This initiative comes as the mandate for the existing United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is set to expire at the end of 2026, with its complete withdrawal from the region anticipated to conclude during 2027. The EU is stepping up its preparations for a possible role in this new peacekeeping mission, recognizing the critical need for continued international support for stability in the region.
EU Reconnaissance and Planning
A mixed civilian and military European Union team conducted its second reconnaissance visit to Lebanon in August. During their visit, the EU team met with Lebanese authorities to further define potential activities the bloc could undertake to support the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and police. This engagement aimed to tailor the prospective mission's objectives to the specific needs and requests of the Lebanese government, ensuring a collaborative approach. The team also engaged with representatives from the main international and bilateral security actors already operating in Lebanon. These meetings were key for identifying possible areas for cooperation and coordination between the future EU effort and existing missions and structures, thereby ensuring complementarity and avoiding duplication.
Operational plans for the potential mission are currently being drafted. The European External Action Service (EEAS), the EU Military Staff (EUMS), and the EU Civilian Operations Headquarters could present these detailed plans to the EU Political and Security Committee as early as mid-September. The full planning process reflects the EU's commitment to a well-structured and effective mission. The overarching plan aims for the mission to be launched at the beginning of the new year, provided an agreement is reached among all 27 member states. This consensus among member states is a fundamental prerequisite for the deployment of any new EU mission, noting the diplomatic efforts required alongside the operational planning.
Key Nations Drive Initiative
Italy is taking a leading role in negotiating the new mission format, with the country currently maintaining the largest military presence in southern Lebanon. This significant existing presence positions Italy as a key player in shaping the future international security architecture in the country. The topic was central during the Franco-Italian bilateral summit last June, where Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Emmanuel Macron stated that France and Italy intended to establish a multinational coalition to succeed the UN peacekeeping force. This joint declaration showed the strategic importance both nations place on Lebanon's stability and their commitment to a coordinated European response.
In Rome on Wednesday, Italian Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Luciano Portolano met his Lebanese counterpart Gen. Rodolphe Haykal to discuss support for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and potential post-UNIFIL scenarios. Their discussions encompassed a wide array of critical topics, including the legal framework under which a new mission would operate, the financial support mechanisms required for sustaining such an effort, a possible Italian troop contribution, and broader military cooperation initiatives. They explored several options for a new multinational command structure, indicating a strong and adaptable approach to leadership and coordination within the prospective mission.
Future Mission Scope
The European Union's proposed mission in Lebanon is anticipated to feature a civilian-military structure aimed at providing strong support to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and internal security agencies. This support could encompass training, equipment, and strategic advisory roles, focusing on enhancing the LAF's capabilities to maintain stability and border security. Preliminary discussions indicate a potential emphasis on maritime security and border management, critical areas given Lebanon's geopolitical position and its extensive coastline.
The mission's scope is also expected to include capacity building for Lebanon's police forces, strengthening their ability to enforce law and order within the country and contribute to overall internal stability. While the precise composition and mandate are still under development, the EU aims to ensure a full approach that addresses various security challenges facing Lebanon. This initiative seeks to fill the void created by UNIFIL's withdrawal, providing continuity in international support for Lebanon's security sector and contributing to long-term stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.
