Germany Pledges Continued Lebanon Presence Post-UNIFIL, Eyes Successor Force

Germany is committed to maintaining its presence in Lebanon even after the conclusion of the UN peacekeeping mission UNIFIL, as European nations deliberate on a potential successor force, according to Deputy Defence Minister Nils Schmid. Speaking to The National, Schmid confirmed Germany's ongoing support for Lebanon's security apparatus.

The UN Security Council unanimously decided in August 2025 to extend UNIFIL's mandate for a final period, concluding in December of this year, after which an orderly withdrawal of personnel will commence. The mission, established in 1978, has been instrumental in monitoring the Blue Line between Lebanon and Israel and bolstering the Lebanese army's efforts to extend state authority in southern Lebanon.

Beirut has formally requested an extension of UNIFIL's mandate, while simultaneously engaging in discussions with international partners regarding alternative arrangements for security and monitoring responsibilities post-UNIFIL. Germany, a long-standing contributor to UNIFIL, particularly through its naval component, has provided training and assistance to the Lebanese navy, including deploying a frigate as part of the mission's maritime force, led by a German commander.

"We will continue after the end of UNIFIL to train and assist," Schmid stated during an interview on the sidelines of the Manama Dialogue in Bahrain, emphasizing Germany's sustained commitment to the Lebanese military. He noted that the exact configuration of a future international presence is still under discussion among European countries, exploring options for operating under a new UN mandate or an EU framework.

With the UN peacekeepers' mission set to expire at the end of 2026 and no replacement currently agreed upon, Italy, France, and Spain are leading the discussions, with other European nations expected to join. "Germany will also be a full part of this," Schmid affirmed, adding, "There's a strong commitment not only by Germany but by major European nations to continue a presence in Lebanon."

Schmid clarified that Germany would not deploy ground troops, with its future contribution remaining focused on the maritime domain. While other European countries are prepared to contribute soldiers, the specifics are yet to be finalized. Italy's Defence Minister Guido Crosetto had previously indicated Italy's plans for a new international mission to succeed UNIFIL, pending US approval. Separately, EU foreign ministers agreed in October to establish a three-year civilian-military mission aimed at strengthening Lebanon's security institutions through advisory and training support for its armed forces and internal security services, distinct from UNIFIL's role.

Schmid reiterated Germany's assurance to the Lebanese government of its continued support for the army, underscoring the importance of the state being the sole security authority. "We strongly encourage the Lebanese government to continue this plan of disarming militias and non-state actors inside Lebanon," he urged, drawing parallels to European history where a single security provider is crucial. Lebanon has pledged to disarm non-state groups, including Hezbollah, but these efforts have faced significant obstacles.

Germany fully supports Lebanon's territorial sovereignty and integrity, while acknowledging Israel's legitimate security interests. Regarding Germany's role in the EU's Operation Aspides, Schmid confirmed that current support levels would be maintained. Operation Aspides, launched in 2024, aims to protect commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Discussions are ongoing regarding enhanced coordination between Operation Aspides and the Saudi-led Multinational Maritime Defensive Coalition.

Schmid also highlighted the increasing interconnectedness of security challenges facing Europe and the Gulf, citing military cooperation between Russia and Iran. He noted that Germany has authorized more arms sales to the region under its current government, with air defence being a priority. A new government-to-government purchasing framework is also in place to facilitate arms purchases by Gulf partners directly with Berlin. "Our partners in the Gulf can count on us to promote diplomatic solutions to these ongoing conflicts," Schmid concluded, stressing the need for deterrence and military strength to be coupled with political efforts, warning that further conflict in the Gulf would have severe global economic repercussions.