Historic Vote Ends Peacekeeping Mission
The UN Security Council unanimously voted to end the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) after nearly five decades of operation. The resolution extends the mission until December 31, 2026, followed by a one-year withdrawal period, marking a significant shift in regional security dynamics. The move comes amid sustained pressure from the United States and Israel, which have long criticized UNIFIL as ineffective in curbing Hezbollah’s influence. Lebanon’s government, however, expressed concern that the withdrawal could destabilize the fragile ceasefire along the Blue Line.
U.S. and Israeli Pressure Drives Decision
The Trump administration spearheaded efforts to terminate UNIFIL, arguing that the mission failed to prevent Hezbollah’s military buildup and citing financial inefficiencies. U.S. Acting Ambassador Dorothy Shea declared this the "final time" Washington would support UNIFIL’s mandate, emphasizing that Lebanon must now assume full security responsibility. Israel echoed this stance, with Ambassador Danny Danon accusing UNIFIL of providing "cover" for Hezbollah’s activities. Despite these claims, European nations like France and Italy warned that a hasty withdrawal could create a security vacuum.
Lebanon’s Sovereignty and Humanitarian Concerns
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam welcomed the extended timeline but stressed that Israel’s ongoing occupation of five strategic positions in southern Lebanon violates Resolution 1701 and undermines sovereignty. UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti noted that the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) lack the resources to patrol the region independently, citing financial crises and Israeli military presence. The resolution calls for international support to bolster LAF capabilities but does not mandate immediate Israeli withdrawal, raising concerns about continued violence against civilians.
Regional Implications and Hezbollah’s Role
The withdrawal plan coincides with U.S.-backed efforts to disarm Hezbollah, a move the group rejects while Israeli forces remain on Lebanese soil. Algeria’s UN ambassador warned that without addressing Israel’s occupation, regional stability remains elusive. UNIFIL’s drawdown also risks hampering humanitarian aid delivery in conflict-affected areas, where the force previously facilitated civilian protection and logistics support. Hezbollah’s infrastructure dismantling by the LAF remains ongoing but incomplete, further complicating the transition.