EU considers training mission for Lebanese Armed Forces

European Union member states are reportedly considering launching a special mission to train and support the Lebanese Armed Forces, aiming to bolster national security and enhance Lebanon’s capacity to address both internal and external challenges.

The announcement was made by Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris upon his arrival in Copenhagen for an informal meeting of EU foreign and defence ministers, Turkish media reported.

“I intend to discuss with my colleagues here how the EU can utilise its mechanisms to support and train the Lebanese Armed Forces. We have already provided similar support for Ukraine and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and I believe we should consider at this conference what can be done to strengthen and train the Lebanese army. Ireland intends to lead this discussion, and I anticipate that in the coming days a document outlining European measures to launch a training mission for the Lebanese army will be prepared,” Harris said.

Harris also welcomed the UN Security Council’s decision to extend the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) until December 31, 2026.

He stressed that EU countries should use the period until early 2027 to assist in rebuilding Lebanon’s armed forces.

The Irish Foreign Minister noted Ireland’s long-standing participation in UNIFIL, during which 47 Irish soldiers and specialists have lost their lives while serving in Lebanon.

By Tamilla Hasanova