British Ambassador to Lebanon Hamish Cowell inaugurated the newly
upgraded Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) training facility in
Zahrani, South Lebanon on Wednesday 20 August.
The LAF facility was developed and upgraded through the support
of the UK Government's Integrated Security Fund. It will serve as
a vital training facility for LAF troops strengthening their
readiness for deployment across South Lebanon. The UK is also
providing 1,000 Personal Protection Equipment sets to protect LAF
soldiers as they carry out critical duties.
Ambassador Cowell attended the inauguration ceremony with Head of
the Second Intervention Regiment, British Defence Attaché Lt. Col
Charles , Deputy Head of the UK ISF and Head of Programme Sarah
Kronfol.
Since 2024, the UK has committed over £17 million to support the
expanded deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), including
in southern Lebanon, reinforcing their role as the sole
legitimate military force of the Lebanese state and strengthening
their resilience across the country.
This latest training facility builds on over a decade of UK
support. Since 2013, the UK has worked closely with the LAF's
Land Border Regiments to bolster Lebanese state authority along
the border with Syria, counter smuggling, and protect local
communities.
After the ceremony, Ambassador Cowell said:
I am honoured to inaugurate the newly upgraded training facility
in Zahrani – a testament to our enduring partnership and shared
vision for a safer Lebanon. The role of the Lebanese Armed Forces
is more vital than ever in safeguarding Lebanon and its people.
Our support is designed to strengthen LAF resilience, address
critical infrastructure needs and enable their permanent, and
sustainable presence in South Lebanon.
The UK is committed to supporting security and stability in
Lebanon, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the LAF and the
nation they protect.
