Beirut: The United Kingdom has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Lebanon's Ministry of Interior and Municipalities and Ministry of Defence, reaffirming its long-standing partnership with Lebanon's security institutions.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the UK's Integrated Security Fund will support a 31-month Internal Security Assistance Programme for the Internal Security Forces (ISF) and the Lebanese Army, with funding amounting to up to £16.3 million. This initiative aims to bolster security, stability, state authority, and institutional resilience in Lebanon.

The UK's collaboration with the Lebanese Army, the Internal Security Forces, and their respective ministries seeks to enhance professional, accountable, and effective responses to both current and emerging internal and external security challenges, including efforts in counter-terrorism and addressing criminal violence.

British Ambassador to Lebanon Hamish Cowell commented on the agreement, stating, "The United Kingdom is proud to stand alongside Lebanon and its security institutions. This Memorandum of Understanding reflects our shared commitment to a more secure, stable, and resilient Lebanon, and to supporting professional state institutions, such as the Lebanese Army and ISF that serve and protect the Lebanese people."

The UK has maintained a close partnership with the Lebanese Army and Internal Security Forces since 2009, demonstrating a consistent commitment to enhancing Lebanon's security infrastructure.