The Lebanese Presidency stated that Aoun described the proposal as an expression of the international community’s commitment to Lebanon’s sovereignty and stability, as well as a recognition of the role played by the Lebanese Armed Forces in maintaining security and extending the authority of the State, especially in the southern border areas.

Aoun also expressed gratitude for Italy and France’s emphasis on the need to avoid a security vacuum once the UNIFIL mission concludes, scheduled for the end of 2026.

The head of State said this view aligns with Beirut’s stance, and the national army is the sole legitimate guarantor of security in the country’s southern region and of preserving its sovereignty.

The president reiterated his government’s willingness to coordinate with its international partners on any mechanism that strengthens the capabilities of the Armed Forces, contributes to protecting Lebanon’s territorial integrity, and prevents the country from becoming the scene of further escalation or regional rivalries.

The presidential declaration came a day after Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced an agreement with France to promote the formation of an international coalition to support Lebanon after the end of the UNIFIL mission, without offering details about its structure or operation.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) unanimously adopted a resolution in August 2025, extending for the final time UNIFIL’s mandate until December 31, 2026, and starting an orderly and safe drawdown and withdrawal of the mission from that date, within one year.

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