UN Security Council Debates Lebanon Peacekeeping Mission Extension

The United Nations Security Council is currently debating a French-drafted resolution to extend the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) for one year, until August 31, 2026, with the intent to eventually withdraw the peacekeepers once the Lebanese government fully controls the south. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has strongly advocated for the extension, emphasizing coordination between UNIFIL, the Lebanese Army, and local residents to maintain stability. However, Israel and the United States have expressed opposition to renewing the mission's mandate, with US officials reportedly favoring winding down the operation within six months. The draft resolution also calls for intensified international support for the Lebanese Army and diplomatic efforts to resolve border disputes between Lebanon and Israel. Ireland, which contributes the largest overseas deployment to UNIFIL, is preparing for the mandate extension, highlighting the importance of the mission for operational experience and diplomatic training for its Defence Forces. The continued presence of UNIFIL is seen as crucial to monitoring hostilities and supporting Lebanon’s army in the volatile southern border region, despite challenges posed by Hezbollah's influence in the area.