The Beiruter

The future of the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Lebanon remains uncertain as the Security Council debates whether to extend its mandate or begin a gradual withdrawal. With the current mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) set to expire on August 31, a decision is expected by the end of the month.

Mandate Renewal Likely Amid Divisions

Although the council is divided, diplomatic sources say the mission will most likely be renewed for at least another year. However, renewal has proven challenging this time, given differing views among member states, as well as pressure from both Lebanese authorities and international actors. Andrea Tenenti, UNIFIL spokesperson, told The Beiruter the importance of the decision: “We are waiting for the Security Council’s decision, as renewing the mandate is vital for stability in south Lebanon and the wider region.” Tenenti warned that failing to extend the mandate could create a “dangerous vacuum.”

UNIFIL forces in southern Lebanon Photo: Reuters

Supporting the Lebanese Army and Local Communities

UNIFIL’s presence remains essential to support the Lebanese army, particularly after the army lost most of its positions in the south during the recent war between Hezbollah and Israel. “The mission is relevant to keep the necessary support to the Lebanese army in their deployment in southern Lebanon after the conflict,” he said. UNIFIL’s work goes beyond military patrols, supporting the army in curbing unauthorized weapons, implementing U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, and assisting displaced communities. He stressed that the renewal of the mandate is tied not only to the army’s deployment but also to “the withdrawal of the IDF troops still present inside Lebanese territory.”

Asked about recent clashes between locals and peacekeepers, Tenenti responded: “On the ground, we carry out hundreds of activities daily. The incidents are few in comparison. While they are violations of Resolution 1701, they remain very limited.”

Financial Support: The mission needs to be funded

Financial sustainability remains one of the mission’s major challenges. Critics, including U.S. envoy Tom Barrack, have questioned the billion-dollar annual cost. But Tenenti defended the investment: “Peace comes with a price. The mission needs to be funded adequately to bring back stability. Spending money for peace is definitely more profitable than adding a conflict that has more consequences and expenses and is never a solution.” He also highlighted the central role of the army and the need for greater international support. “The LAF is an incredibly committed army, but it needs financial support to assist the implementation of 1701 and make the LAF a sustainable force in the south,” he said.

As Lebanon continues to grapple with instability after months of conflict, Tenenti reiterated UNIFIL’s commitment to the Lebanese people: “We are fully committed to assist Lebanon in bringing back stability, not only through military activities like patrolling, but also through clearing roads of landmines and rubble, and supporting local populations with medical and humanitarian activities.”

Whether UNIFIL’s mandate is renewed or set on a path toward withdrawal, the coming days at the Security Council will determine the fate of one of Lebanon’s most crucial international missions.