Ahead of Lebanese Army Day on 1 August the UK Chargé D’Affaires Victoria Dunne, accompanied by Defence Attaché Lt Col Charles Smith, inaugurated a new military accommodation facility in Hamat on Thursday 31 July.

The building, funded by the UK Ministry of Defence will support UK personnel to deliver a variety of training and support to various Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) units. This includes leadership development for junior officers and infantry skills courses, including for female LAF personnel.

The UK continues to be a steadfast supporter of the LAF, the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon, supporting with training, kit and equipment.

Chargé D’Affaires Victoria Dunne said:

A huge congratulations to the LAF on their 80th anniversary whose bravery defending Lebanon internally and on the borders is admirable.

I am thrilled to be in Hamat today to inaugurate this new accommodation facility.

We are proud of our partnership with the LAF and ongoing support for the development of its capabilities, including through training.

Defence Attaché Charles Smith said:

Today is another milestone for UK-Lebanese defence cooperation.

The provision of accommodation and facilities will assist UK personnel in delivering high-impact training to various LAF brigades and units, including to female officers and soldiers.

It also demonstrates that the UK remains a proud and enduring partner to the LAF.