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EU steps up security assistance to Lebanon

1 min Mena Today

The European Union has approved €132 million in support to Lebanon aimed at reinforcing security, stability and institutional capacity, Lebanon’s Finance Ministry announced. 

The programs address border management, anti-smuggling efforts, the rule of law and operational capacities across key institutions © Mena Today 

The programs address border management, anti-smuggling efforts, the rule of law and operational capacities across key institutions © Mena Today 

The European Union has approved €132 million in support to Lebanon aimed at reinforcing security, stability and institutional capacity, Lebanon’s Finance Ministry announced. 

Finance Minister Yassine Jaber and EU Ambassador Sandra De Waele signed agreements covering €55 million of the package, with the remaining deals expected in the coming weeks. The ministry did not specify whether the funds come as grants or loans.

Jaber said the new support reflects “a stable path of cooperation” between Lebanon and the EU, adding that the funds will help strengthen security institutions and administrative bodies at a time when Lebanon “needs every effort to bolster resilience and stability.” 

He noted that the programs address border management, anti-smuggling efforts, the rule of law and operational capacities across key institutions.

Ambassador De Waele said the cooperation focuses on two main areas. The first, worth €30 million, will enhance Lebanon’s Internal Security Forces (ISF) in tackling organized crime and cybercrime, and improve coordination among security agencies against terrorism, its financing and smuggling. 

The second, a €25 million program, aims to improve border and airport management, as well as maritime security and governance, in coordination with the Transport Ministry, the Lebanese Navy and other agencies, in line with international standards.

She added that an additional agreement will soon be signed to provide sustainable energy solutions to Lebanese security institutions to ensure uninterrupted operation of essential facilities.

Earlier this week, an EU document seen by Reuters indicated that Brussels is examining ways to reinforce the ISF so the Lebanese Army can focus on disarming Hezbollah. 

The document also mentioned an assessment mission planned for early 2026 to explore further support.

Lebanon’s security agencies have recently conducted several major anti-drug operations, amid pressure from Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, which had suspended Lebanese imports following large captagon seizures.

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