Lebanon’s President Seeks UNIFIL Renewal Ahead of Mandate Deadline

Meeting with UN Peacekeeping Chief

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun met with Jean‑Pierre Lacroix, the United Nations Under‑Secretary‑General for Peace Operations, to discuss the future of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Lebanon’s Position on UNIFIL

During the meeting, Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon’s wish to keep UNIFIL deployed in south Lebanon and expressed hope that the U.N. Security Council would approve Beirut’s request to renew the force’s mandate for the coming year.

UN Official’s Response

Lacroix stressed the importance of hearing Lebanon’s views, saying, “I believe discussions in the Security Council will begin now, and it is vital — indeed imperative — that Lebanon’s voice be heard on this matter, as the country directly concerned.”

Background on UNIFIL

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon currently comprises about 7,500 personnel from nearly 50 countries and has been present since 1978, although its deployment has not stopped repeated outbreaks of conflict.

Mandate Timeline

Under U.S. pressure, the U.N. Security Council voted last year to end UNIFIL’s mandate on December 31, 2026.