Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Turkey would "join any force" for stability, including a force in Lebanon

Turkey is expanding its foothold in Lebanon through military and civilian ties, and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has signaled willingness to take part in a future regional security arrangement there. During July visits by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to Ankara, Erdogan said Turkey would contribute to any mission meant to protect regional stability, including a successor international presence in Lebanon once the UNIFIL mandate concludes. He also said Turkish military backing for Lebanese troops would continue and that Ankara was prepared to help rebuild southern Lebanon. Turkey has served in UNIFIL since 2006, supplied equipment and training to Lebanon’s army, and supported aid projects through state agencies. That expansion matters because Israel closely watches Turkish influence on its northern border, given Ankara’s sharp criticism of Israel and its ties to groups Israel brands as terrorists.