A new border checkpoint has been inaugurated along Lebanon’s eastern frontier, as part of a project funded by the UK’s Integrated Security Fund. This facility is part of a broader program aimed at strengthening the operational capacity of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) to combat smuggling and cross-border illegal activities.
The site visit marked the conclusion of a two-day official mission to Lebanon on October 14–15 by Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren, the UK’s Senior Military Adviser for the Middle East and North Africa.
Accompanied by British Ambassador Hamish Cowell, Vice Admiral Ahlgren highlighted the importance of the partnership between London and Beirut. “We reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s support for the Lebanese Armed Forces in their mission to protect borders and maintain stability, particularly in South Lebanon,” said the ambassador. For his part, the vice admiral emphasized the progress achieved through this cooperation: “The border observation posts we are building together are tangible proof of our commitment. The United Kingdom remains a steadfast partner in strengthening Lebanon’s security institutions and supporting the LAF as the country’s sole legitimate border defense.”
Since 2010, the United Kingdom has funded the construction of more than 82 checkpoints and forward operating bases along Lebanon’s border, thereby enhancing national security and the army’s presence throughout the country.
During his visit, Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren met with several senior Lebanese officials, including President Joseph Aoun, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Defense Minister Michel Menassa, Army Commander General Rodolphe Haykal, and UNIFIL Force Commander General Diodato Abagnara.
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