Military commanders from European and Arab countries are gathering in Paris to discuss the needs of Lebanon’s armed forces and security options following the end of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the country.

Reuters reported that the meeting is taking place on Thursday, September 17, amid growing concerns about a possible resumption of Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon.

The meeting will initially be co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Jordan’s King Abdullah II. A senior U.S. military official will also attend.

Under U.S.-mediated talks, Israel and Lebanon have reached a broad understanding aimed at reducing tensions. Under the arrangement, Israeli forces would gradually withdraw from southern Lebanon, while Lebanese forces would deploy in the area and Hezbollah would be disarmed.

Officials in Paris will also examine the military and financial needs of the Lebanese Armed Forces ahead of a possible donors’ conference in late 2026 or early 2027.

One of the main concerns is the possibility of a security vacuum as the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which has around 7,500 personnel, gradually reduces its presence. Its withdrawal process is scheduled to begin next January.

France and Lebanon have called for an extension of UNIFIL’s mandate, while the United States and Israel have so far not supported extending the mission.

The meeting will also consider the possibility of establishing an international mission outside the UN framework, backed by France and Italy, as well as a potential European Union-led mission. These missions would focus on training, equipment, intelligence sharing and advising the Lebanese Armed Forces.

The meeting comes as Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon have increased following the June ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry said that at least 13 people, including six children, were killed in Israeli strikes on a town in southern Lebanon on Monday.