Erdogan says Turkey seeks to join a post-UNIFIL security force in Lebanon

Turkish President Erdogan stated Turkey wants to participate in a new security initiative for Lebanon after UNIFIL's mandate expires at year-end. Speaking alongside Lebanese President Aoun in Ankara, Erdogan said Turkey aims to support regional security and Lebanon's sovereignty. Israel is expected to oppose Turkey's inclusion. Aoun called for stronger Lebanese-Turkish relations.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Thursday that Turkey is interested in participating in a new security initiative for Lebanon after the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission expires at the end of the year. Speaking alongside Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Ankara, Erdogan said Turkey wants to take part in all initiatives to support security in the region and ensure Lebanon's sovereignty. The UN Security Council voted last year to terminate UNIFIL, bowing to Israeli and US demands that the mission failed to prevent Hezbollah's military buildup. Other countries like France and Italy have also expressed interest in a successor force, but its form and mandate remain unclear. Israel is expected to oppose Turkey's inclusion due to Ankara's criticism of Israel. Aoun called for more ambitious Lebanese-Turkish relations at a crucial moment for the region. Erdogan also pledged support for Lebanon's post-war economic recovery and its army. The visit comes as Lebanon remains under a shaky truce between Israel and Hezbollah, which launched rockets in March 2026 after a previous ceasefire.