France and Europe plan international force for Lebanon

France and several European partners are coordinating to establish an international coalition to prevent a security vacuum in southern Lebanon following the expected end of the UNIFIL mandate at the end of this year. This initiative aims to bolster Lebanese sovereignty and prevent regional escalation.

France is working with Italy to develop a UN-backed international force that respects Lebanese requirements. Concurrently, the European Union plans to launch a mission in October to train the Lebanese Army, focusing on border and maritime security to empower the nation to manage its own defense. This mission is intended to complement, rather than replace, UN peacekeeping efforts.

Diplomatic discussions are ongoing to address the potential departure of UNIFIL. While some reports suggest challenges regarding mandate extensions in the Security Council, European officials are preparing for a mission to support the Lebanese Army in securing southern regions and managing post-conflict stability.