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    Paris Hosts Security Talks on Future of Lebanon Post-UNIFIL Withdrawal

    Section editor: ·Moderate3 articles covering this·2 news sources·Updated 2 hours ago·MENA
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    A graphic illustrating the timeline of UNIFIL's mandate and upcoming security changes in Lebanon.

    What happened

    On September 17, 2026, military leaders gathered in Paris to discuss the future of security in Lebanon following the planned withdrawal of UNIFIL.

    The Context

    • UNIFIL's history: Established in 1978, the UN Interim Force in Lebanon is set to conclude its mandate by December 31, 2026, following a U.S.-brokered agreement for Israeli withdrawals.
    • Security concerns: The discussions focus on preventing a security vacuum, with proposals for a multinational coalition led by France and Italy to support Lebanese forces.
    • Regional implications: Heightened instability in Lebanon could affect trade routes and investor sentiment across the Middle East, particularly for businesses in Dubai.

    The Number

    7,478

    — the current strength of UNIFIL personnel from 47 countries, highlighting the scale of the transition and the potential security gap that could arise.

    Takeaway

    As the UNIFIL drawdown approaches in January 2027, expect increased international focus on Lebanon's security framework and potential donor support.

    3 Articles
    France 24 Middle East

    Lebanon: UNIFIL withdrawal at the heart of Paris talks

    French President Emmanuel Macron hosted Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Jordan's King Abdullah II in Paris to discuss Lebanon's security and international support for its army, particularly in light of the planned withdrawal of UNIFIL by the end o...

    17 hours ago
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    France 24

    Lebanon: UNIFIL withdrawal at the heart of Paris talks

    French President Emmanuel Macron hosted Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Jordan's King Abdullah II in Paris to discuss Lebanon's security and international support for its army, particularly in light of the planned withdrawal of UNIFIL by the end o...

    17 hours ago
    Read Full Article
    The National

    Lebanese President calls for long-term support for post-Unifil framework at Paris meeting

    Lebanese President Michel Aoun emphasized the need for long-term support for a post-UNIFIL framework during a recent meeting in Paris. This call comes as Lebanon navigates complex security challenges following the anticipated withdrawal of the United...

    19 hours ago
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    The National

    Aoun and King Abdullah to meet in Paris as France leads Unifil replacement drive

    Lebanese President Michel Aoun is set to meet with Jordan's King Abdullah in Paris, as France leads efforts to replace the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) amid ongoing security challenges in the region. This meeting underscores the u...