The United Nations Security Council has begun negotiations on the future of its long-standing peacekeeping force in Lebanon, with a French-drafted resolution proposing an extension of the mandate while also signaling the possibility of an eventual withdrawal.
The U.N. Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), first deployed in 1978, patrols the country’s southern border with Israel. Its mandate, which has been renewed annually, is set to expire on August 31.
The French draft resolution, seen by Reuters, outlines the council’s “intention to work on a withdrawal of UNIFIL” once the Lebanese government demonstrates full control of its territory and the parties agree to a comprehensive political arrangement.
Diplomats said the United States, a veto-wielding council member, told a closed-door meeting on Monday that the mission should only be extended for one final year. The U.S. State Department declined to comment on the ongoing discussions.
UNIFIL’s mandate was expanded in 2006 after a month-long war between Israel and Hezbollah, authorizing peacekeepers to support the Lebanese army in keeping parts of the south free of armed groups.
However, the mission has long faced friction with Hezbollah, which remains Lebanon’s most powerful political and military force and maintains significant influence in the south.
The draft resolution also calls on the international community to strengthen support for the Lebanese army, including through equipment, material, and financial aid, as Beirut struggles with a prolonged political and economic crisis.
Written By Rodney Mbua
