France and Italy propose coalition to replace UNIFIL in Lebanon

France and Italy say they want to create a multinational coalition to replace the UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon, even as Israel continues to occupy Lebanese territory and carry out attacks across the country.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced the proposal after talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, saying Paris and Rome wanted a new security arrangement after UNIFIL leaves.

"We want to launch a coalition for the post-UNIFIL arrangement, obviously in coordination with the European Union and the United Nations, to strengthen Lebanon's sovereignty and that of its armed forces," Macron said.

The proposal comes as Lebanon faces growing pressure over its security arrangements while Israel refuses to withdraw from areas it has seized.