French President Emmanuel Macron met with Joseph Aoun, the head of the Lebanese army, on Thursday, September 17, to discuss a plan aimed at securing international support for the Lebanese military's expanded role across the country. The meeting comes as Lebanon continues to face political instability and security challenges, and as international actors seek ways to support local institutions in maintaining order. Macron and Aoun focused on diplomatic and military strategies to ensure that Lebanon can manage its internal security without relying solely on foreign forces. This includes discussions about the potential deployment of the Lebanese army in areas where stability is currently weak. Such a move would represent a significant step in strengthening Lebanon’s national security framework. France and Italy, the first countries to contribute troops to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), are reviewing the future of the international military presence in southern Lebanon. The current UN mandate is set to expire by the end of this year, and both nations are considering how to adjust their involvement in the region. This review comes amid ongoing tensions and uncertainty about the region’s future security arrangements. The discussions between Macron and Aoun highlight the growing interest of European countries in supporting Lebanon’s military and political institutions. As the UNIFIL mission nears its end, the focus is shifting toward how Lebanon can take greater responsibility for its own security, with international backing. This effort aims to ensure a smooth transition and continued stability in the region.