The United Nations Security Council convened on Monday to discuss a French-drafted resolution proposing a one-year extension of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mandate, set to expire on August 31, 2025, with an ultimate goal of withdrawing the peacekeeping force. The proposal has sparked significant debate, with Israel and the United States reportedly opposing the renewal, raising questions about the mission’s effectiveness and future.
UNIFIL, established in 1978 to monitor the Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon and maintain peace along the southern border, has been a cornerstone of regional stability efforts. Its mandate was expanded in 2006 following the Israel-Hezbollah conflict to support the Lebanese Armed Forces in maintaining security in southern Lebanon. However, the mission has faced criticism, particularly from Israel and the U.S., for failing to curb Hezbollah’s military buildup in the region.
The French resolution would extend UNIFIL’s mandate until August 31, 2026, but includes language signalling an intent to work toward its eventual withdrawal. The draft stipulates that withdrawal would occur only if Lebanon’s government becomes the ‘sole provider of security in southern Lebanon’ and a comprehensive political arrangement is agreed upon by all parties. It also calls for enhanced diplomatic efforts to resolve disputes along the Lebanon-Israel border.
Israel and the U.S. have expressed scepticism about UNIFIL’s effectiveness. Israeli officials argue that the peacekeeping force has been unable to prevent Hezbollah’s entrenchment in southern Lebanon, with reports of rockets and missiles launched from areas near UNIFIL posts. The Israel Defence Forces have noted instances where Hezbollah exploited proximity to UNIFIL positions, including an attack that killed two IDF soldiers. The U.S., a veto-wielding member of the Security Council, has suggested limiting the mandate extension to one final year, according to diplomatic sources. Critics of the proposed withdrawal, including some analysts, argue that UNIFIL’s presence, while imperfect, remains vital to preventing escalation. The Security Council is expected to vote on the resolution by August 25, 2025, before the current mandate expires.
