Italy will maintain a military presence in southern Lebanon even after the planned withdrawal of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in 2027, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto announced on Monday, signalling a potential shift in Europe’s security engagement in the volatile region.

Speaking during a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Beirut, Crosetto said Italy intends to keep its forces deployed south of the Litani River to support the Lebanese Armed Forces in preserving stability and preventing renewed conflict. The meeting was also attended by Lebanon’s Defence Minister Michel Menassa, according to a statement issued by the Lebanese presidency.

Crosetto emphasised that Italy’s continued presence would focus on assisting the Lebanese Army in maintaining security along the southern border, an area that has long been a flashpoint between Israel and Hezbollah. He added that several other European countries are considering similar arrangements following UNIFIL’s drawdown.

“Italy’s role is aimed at supporting Lebanon’s sovereignty and stability,” Crosetto said, stressing that sustained diplomatic and military engagement remains essential to avoid escalation. He noted that Rome is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to stabilise southern Lebanon and is closely monitoring negotiations involving regional actors.

The Italian defence minister also addressed ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, warning that continued instability benefits no party. He said Israel must recognise that prolonged military pressure in southern Lebanon risks undermining broader regional security and jeopardising fragile diplomatic progress.

President Aoun welcomed Italy’s commitment, saying Lebanon is open to the participation of Italy and other European nations in any international or multinational force that may succeed UNIFIL after its withdrawal. Such a force, he said, would play a crucial role in enabling the Lebanese Army to maintain control and security along the southern border once Israeli forces complete their withdrawal.

The United Nations Security Council, on August 28, extended UNIFIL’s mandate for the final time ahead of its planned exit. Resolution 2790, adopted unanimously by all 15 members, extends the mission until December 31, 2026, after which UNIFIL will begin a year-long drawdown process before fully withdrawing in 2027.

UNIFIL has operated in southern Lebanon since 1978, with a mandate to monitor hostilities, support the Lebanese Army, and help maintain peace along the Blue Line separating Lebanon and Israel. Italy has been one of the mission’s largest troop contributors and has played a prominent leadership role within the force.

A ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel has been in effect since November 27, 2024, easing large-scale hostilities. However, Israeli forces have continued to carry out periodic strikes in Lebanon, targeting what they describe as Hezbollah positions and threats, raising concerns about the durability of the truce.

Earlier this month, Israel and Lebanon held their first direct talks in southern Lebanon’s Naqoura, facilitated by international mediators. A second round of discussions took place on Friday as part of an ongoing security dialogue, focusing on Hezbollah’s disarmament and the safe return of residents to villages along Lebanon’s southern border, according to Israeli and Lebanese sources.

Analysts say Italy’s announcement reflects growing European concern over a potential security vacuum following UNIFIL’s departure. With tensions in the Middle East remaining high, continued European engagement may be seen as critical to preventing renewed conflict and supporting Lebanon’s fragile stability.