UN Security Council Extends Lebanon Peacekeeping Mission Until 2026
The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) will cease operations by the end of 2026, initiating a one-year withdrawal process.
The United Nations Security Council has unanimously extended the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) for a final time until the end of 2026.
This decision marks the beginning of a one-year 'orderly and safe drawdown and withdrawal' of UNIFIL personnel, with consultations to be held closely with the Government of Lebanon.
The resolution aims to enable Lebanon to assume sole responsibility for security in southern Lebanon by 31 December 2026.
UNIFIL was established in 1978 to patrol Lebanon's southern border with Israel.
Its mandate has been expanded over the years, particularly following a month-long war between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006.
The subsequent extension allowed UNIFIL to assist the Lebanese army in keeping parts of southern Lebanon free from weapons or armed personnel other than those of the Lebanese state.
The move reflects a shift in the security landscape in Lebanon, with the expectation that the Lebanese government will assume greater responsibility for maintaining peace and stability in the region.
This development comes as Hezbollah, which controls southern Lebanon despite the presence of the Lebanese army, is viewed as a heavily armed political party posing a regional threat.
Critics argue that UNIFIL has failed to achieve its mission, citing the growing influence and power of Hezbollah.
However, supporters see this extension as an opportunity for Lebanon to consolidate its authority over all territories, including areas currently occupied by Israel.
The United States is also advocating for a plan aimed at disarming Hezbollah, while promoting economic development initiatives in southern Lebanon to reduce reliance on Iranian funding.
The extension of UNIFIL's mandate has been welcomed by Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who emphasized the call for Israel to withdraw from occupied territories and reaffirmed the necessity of extending state authority throughout Lebanon.
This move sets the stage for a pivotal transition in Lebanon’s security landscape.
This decision marks the beginning of a one-year 'orderly and safe drawdown and withdrawal' of UNIFIL personnel, with consultations to be held closely with the Government of Lebanon.
The resolution aims to enable Lebanon to assume sole responsibility for security in southern Lebanon by 31 December 2026.
UNIFIL was established in 1978 to patrol Lebanon's southern border with Israel.
Its mandate has been expanded over the years, particularly following a month-long war between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006.
The subsequent extension allowed UNIFIL to assist the Lebanese army in keeping parts of southern Lebanon free from weapons or armed personnel other than those of the Lebanese state.
The move reflects a shift in the security landscape in Lebanon, with the expectation that the Lebanese government will assume greater responsibility for maintaining peace and stability in the region.
This development comes as Hezbollah, which controls southern Lebanon despite the presence of the Lebanese army, is viewed as a heavily armed political party posing a regional threat.
Critics argue that UNIFIL has failed to achieve its mission, citing the growing influence and power of Hezbollah.
However, supporters see this extension as an opportunity for Lebanon to consolidate its authority over all territories, including areas currently occupied by Israel.
The United States is also advocating for a plan aimed at disarming Hezbollah, while promoting economic development initiatives in southern Lebanon to reduce reliance on Iranian funding.
The extension of UNIFIL's mandate has been welcomed by Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who emphasized the call for Israel to withdraw from occupied territories and reaffirmed the necessity of extending state authority throughout Lebanon.
This move sets the stage for a pivotal transition in Lebanon’s security landscape.
