Macron and Aoun Push for Lebanese Army Support
French President Emmanuel Macron and Lebanese President Michel Aoun met in Paris with Jordan’s King Abdullah II to review a deployment plan for the Lebanese Armed Forces. The discussion aimed to secure financial, equipment, and training support while addressing the continued Israeli presence in sou…
By Felo News Desk · Published
On Thursday, Paris hosted a high‑profile summit that brought together France’s Emmanuel Macron, Lebanon’s Michel Aoun, and Jordan’s King Abdullah II to discuss how to reinforce the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and curb Israeli attacks along the southern border. The meeting was part of a broader effort to secure international backing for a new military deployment strategy in Lebanon.
Setting the Stage: A Post‑UNIFIL Future
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has maintained a presence in the south since 1978, but its mandate expires on December 31, 2026. France and Italy have expressed interest in forming a multinational coalition to replace the UN peacekeepers. The LAF, historically under‑equipped and stretched thin, has struggled to assert state authority, especially in the face of Hezbollah’s influence and Israeli incursions.
In June, a U.S.‑mediated framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon outlined a gradual Israeli withdrawal and the deployment of the LAF to the south. However, the deal did not compel Israel to pull back from the occupied 10‑kilometre strip, and attacks have continued, raising fears of a renewed conflict.
Paris Talks: Objectives and Outcomes
Macron’s administration framed the talks as a chance to review a “clear, credible, and realistic” deployment plan for the LAF. The French presidency highlighted the need for robust international support—financial aid, equipment, and training—to enable Lebanon to safeguard its sovereignty. Macron emphasized that a sovereign and stable Lebanon is essential for regional peace, adding that the LAF is “indispensable for asserting the authority of the Lebanese state across its entire territory.”
Aoun echoed Macron’s sentiments, stressing that only the Lebanese state should possess arms and that the army is the main pillar for protecting national sovereignty. He expressed relief that the discussions were progressing and urged allies to meet the LAF’s needs. The Lebanese president also reiterated his commitment to disarming Hezbollah without confrontation, a stance he has maintained repeatedly.
The summit also saw the participation of defence chiefs from France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and the United States, as well as senior officials from Saudi Arabia. This broad coalition underscored the international community’s interest in stabilizing Lebanon’s security landscape.
Challenges Facing the Lebanese Armed Forces
Lebanon’s army has historically been hampered by limited resources and political fragmentation. The LAF’s capacity to enforce state authority, particularly in the south, has been constrained by the presence of Hezbollah and the lingering Israeli occupation. The new deployment plan aims to address these gaps by enhancing equipment, training, and logistical support.
Moreover, the LAF’s role in disarming Hezbollah is a delicate task. Aoun has repeatedly stated that Lebanon intends to neutralise the militia’s military capabilities while avoiding direct confrontation. The success of this strategy hinges on the army’s ability to operate effectively across the country’s diverse terrain.
Next Steps and Unresolved Issues
While the Paris talks have laid the groundwork for international assistance, several questions remain. How will the new multinational force replace UNIFIL, and what will its mandate look like? Will Israel comply with the framework agreement and fully withdraw from the occupied zone? How will the LAF be equipped to manage both internal security and external threats?
Lebanese officials have called for continued diplomatic pressure on Israel and the United States to honour the framework agreement. They also seek assurances that international aid will be delivered promptly and that training programs will be tailored to the LAF’s unique operational environment.
As the international community watches, the outcome of these negotiations will shape not only Lebanon’s security but also the broader stability of the Middle East.
Key facts
- Paris summit focused on bolstering Lebanese Armed Forces
- UNIFIL’s mandate ends in 2026, prompting new force discussions
- Lebanon aims to disarm Hezbollah without direct conflict
- Israel’s continued occupation remains a security threat
- International support is essential for LAF’s effectiveness
Why it matters
A robust Lebanese army is crucial for asserting state sovereignty and preventing external aggression, thereby contributing to regional stability and the prevention of further conflict.
Frequently asked questions
What is the status of UNIFIL?
UNIFIL’s mandate expires on December 31, 2026, after nearly 48 years of operation.
Why is the Lebanese army under‑equipped?
Years of political instability, economic crises, and limited budget allocations have left the LAF with insufficient resources.
Will Israel withdraw from southern Lebanon?
The U.S.‑mediated framework calls for a gradual withdrawal, but Israel has yet to fully comply.
How will international aid help?
Aid will provide essential equipment, training, and financial resources to strengthen the LAF’s operational capabilities.
Sources
- [1] aljazeera.com — originally reported as “Macron and Aoun discuss efforts to back Lebanon’s army, end Israeli attacks”
