A planned European security mission in Lebanon will support the Lebanese army in efforts to disarm Hezbollah, a senior European diplomatic official told Al Arabiya/Al Hadath on Tuesday, as the U.N. peacekeeping force UNIFIL prepares to end its mission in southern Lebanon.

The diplomat stressed that the European mission would not replace UNIFIL, whose mandate is expected to expire at the end of this year.

Instead, the European mission would focus on strengthening Lebanon’s military and security institutions and supporting the army as it works to extend State authority and place weapons under State control, the diplomat said.

The initiative has been under discussion for some time, with more than 10 countries expressing readiness to provide resources and personnel, as well as training and logistical support, to the Lebanese army and security forces.

The mission would focus on developing the capabilities of the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Internal Security Forces to help them maintain security and stability, according to the diplomat.

It would also support the Lebanese army as it expands its presence toward areas along Lebanon’s southern border, allowing it to focus on implementing international resolutions, including addressing the issue of weapons and ensuring that they are held exclusively by the state.