The United Nations Security Council has unanimously voted to extend the UN peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon until December 31, 2026, followed by a gradual withdrawal of its 10,800 military and civilian personnel over the subsequent year.
This decision comes amid increasing pressure from the United States and Israel to terminate the mission.
The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was established in 1978 to oversee the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon and has played a crucial role in maintaining a demilitarized buffer between Israel and Lebanon.
Despite its importance, the mission has faced criticism from Israel, which accuses UNIFIL of failing to prevent threats posed by Hezbollah.
Acting US Ambassador to the UN, Dorothy Shea, emphasized that the US will not support any future extension of the mission, stating, “this will be the last time the United States will support an extension of UNIFIL.”
Israeli officials welcomed the vote, with Danny Danon, Israel’s UN representative, saying, “For a change, we have some good news coming from the UN.”
The approved resolution aims to make the Lebanese government “the sole provider of security” in southern Lebanon north of the Blue Line, while calling on Israel to withdraw its forces.
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam welcomed the move, reiterating the call for Israel to withdraw from occupied territories and affirming the necessity of extending state authority over all its territory.
UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti questioned the feasibility of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701 with Israeli forces still present in Lebanon.
The resolution calls for the withdrawal of Hezbollah south of the Litani river, disarmament of the group, and Israel’s full withdrawal from Lebanon’s sovereign territory.
Tenenti emphasized the challenges of deploying Lebanese forces everywhere in the south while Israeli forces remain.
The vote has sparked concerns about the potential security vacuum and renewed violence in the region. As the UNIFIL mission winds down, the responsibility for maintaining peace will shift to the Lebanese Armed Forces, which face significant challenges, including financial constraints and the need for international support.
The US has been pushing a plan to disarm Hezbollah, which the group has rejected, citing Israel’s continued presence in the country. The situation remains complex, with the region facing uncertainty and potential instability in the coming months.
The UN Security Council’s decision to wind down the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon by 2026 has sparked various reactions from the international community. Here are some perspectives on this development:
- United States: The US has been pushing for an end to UNIFIL, viewing the mission as costly and ineffective in curbing Hezbollah’s influence. The Trump administration had already slashed US funding for UNIFIL, and the current decision reflects its stance on the matter.
- European Nations: Countries like France and Italy have advocated for a gradual phase-out of UNIFIL, warning that a sudden exit could create a security vacuum exploitable by Hezbollah. They emphasize the importance of maintaining stability in the region.
- Israel: Israel has long accused UNIFIL of failing to prevent threats posed by Hezbollah and has pushed for the end of its mission. The country’s stance is driven by its security concerns and perceived ineffectiveness of UNIFIL.
- Lebanon: The Lebanese government faces significant challenges in assuming full security responsibilities, given its current financial crisis and limitations. The country’s army needs international support, including equipment, funding, and materials, to strengthen its border security capabilities.
- Hezbollah: The Iran-backed group has rejected the prospect of disarmament, citing Israel’s continued presence in Lebanon. Hezbollah’s stance adds complexity to the region’s security dynamics.
- Security Vacuum: A sudden withdrawal of UNIFIL could create a security vacuum, potentially destabilizing the region. The Lebanese army’s limitations and Hezbollah’s presence exacerbate this concern.
- Humanitarian Situation: The conflict in Lebanon has resulted in significant humanitarian needs, with over 1.2 million people displaced from their homes. A stable security environment is crucial for addressing these needs.¹ ² ³
- UNIFIL’s Role: UNIFIL has played a vital role in maintaining peace along the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon. The mission’s withdrawal will shift security responsibilities to the Lebanese Armed Forces, with international support.
- Peacekeeping Challenges: The decision highlights the challenges of peacekeeping in complex conflict zones. UNIFIL’s experience demonstrates the need for nuanced approaches to conflict resolution and stability.