UN Votes to End Peacekeeping Force in Lebanon After Nearly 50 Years

UN Security Council Vote on UNIFIL

• 🗳️ The UN Security Council has unanimously voted to end the UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon, UNIFIL.
• 🗓️ The mission will begin a year-long withdrawal in 2026, concluding after nearly five decades of operation.
• 🇺🇸 The decision was influenced by demands from the United States and its ally Israel.

UNIFIL's Mandate and History

• peacekeeping force has patrolled southern Lebanon since 1978.
• 👮‍♂️ UNIFIL's mandate included monitoring Israel's withdrawal and assisting the Lebanese government in reclaiming control over areas previously dominated by Hezbollah.

International Reactions and Concerns

• 🇮🇱 Israel welcomed the vote, with officials declaring the conclusion of UNIFIL's mandate on the border.
• 🇱🇧 Lebanon, while welcoming the extension, expressed concerns about the risks associated with ending the mission, viewing UNIFIL's presence as essential for regional security and stability.
• 🇬🇧 The UK echoed Lebanon's concerns, warning that a premature withdrawal could create a security vacuum exploitable by hostile actors.