Lieutenant General Sir Charlie Collins, Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff for Military Strategy and Operations, concluded a visit to Lebanon, the British Embassy Beirut reported on 5 October 2026. He met Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri, Lebanese Armed Forces Commander General Rodolph Haykal and UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jean Arnault.

Discussions, as described in the report, centred on the security situation in south Lebanon. The embassy said the talks highlighted the role of the Lebanese armed forces in safeguarding Lebanon's sovereignty, supporting state authority and contributing to long-term stability. General Collins reaffirmed UK partnership with Lebanon and continued support for the Lebanese armed forces as what the embassy called the country's sole legitimate defender.

The visit also underlined UK backing for diplomatic efforts the embassy said were needed to reduce tensions, prevent escalation and create conditions for a secure and sustainable future for Lebanon. In remarks released with the report, General Collins said the UK values its long-standing partnership with Lebanon and the armed forces and, amid regional uncertainty, remains committed to supporting efforts to enhance security and uphold Lebanese sovereignty.