This came according to a statement published on the official United Nations News page on the “X” platform today, Thursday. It indicated that the UN Security Council voted unanimously to extend the mandate of the UNIFIL forces in Lebanon until December 31, 2026.
The statement noted that this extension would be the last for UNIFIL. The resolution establishing the force tasked it with confirming the Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon, restoring international peace and security, and assisting the Lebanese government in extending its authority over the south.
Following the July 2006 war, its duties expanded under Resolution 1701 to include monitoring the cessation of hostilities, overseeing the “Blue Line” demarcation, and supporting the Lebanese army in South Litani.
It is noted that the United States of America and Israel seek to end the work of the international emergency forces “UNIFIL” in the south, while Lebanon insists on the continued presence of international forces in the south until all provisions of UN Resolution 1701 are implemented, including the complete deployment of the Lebanese army along the international borders.
Reports a few days ago indicated that France made efforts with the United States to reach a modified formula that satisfies both parties regarding the vote on a draft resolution to extend the UNIFIL mandate in Lebanon for an additional 12 months.
