UK-funded Behavioral Detection Training completed at Beirut airport

British Ambassador to Lebanon Hamish Cowell attended the closing ceremony for Lebanese airport security personnel who successfully completed the UK-funded Behavioral Detection Training course at the Beirut international airport.

The training took place over a three-week period, delivered in partnership with the Lebanese Army, General Security and Internal Security Forces. It aimed to enhance airport safety for all passengers and counter threats such as terrorism, smuggling, and criminal activity. The training also included 18 female officers from General Security and Internal Security Forces.

Ambassador Cowell said: "We are proud to support Lebanon’s efforts to strengthen airport security. The skills learned throughout the three-week training will help ensure the safety of all passengers, including the growing number of British tourists, business travelers, and British-Lebanese families."

"I commend the Lebanese security officers’ dedication especially during challenging times. The training has already shown results, with techniques reportedly used in a recent arrest related to a shooting incident. The UK continues to work closely with Lebanon to promote stability and security across key infrastructure ports of access," he added.

Since its inception in 2018, the UK-funded Behavioral Detection Training program has provided airport security teams with tactical skills to identify and disrupt potential terrorist threats.

"The initiative builds on the UK’s longstanding support to Lebanon’s border and airport security institutions. Through this collaboration, the program has strengthened the capabilities of Lebanese immigration and security personnel in detecting terrorist activity at both border crossings," a British embassy statement said.