The future of UN peacekeepers in Lebanon has sparked a transatlantic divide between the US and its European allies, raising concerns about security in the Middle East. The UN peacekeeping operation, known as UNIFIL, was created to oversee Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon after the 1978 invasion. Its mission was expanded following the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah.
The Trump administration has sought to end UNIFIL, citing its ineffectiveness and the delay of eliminating Hezbollah’s influence in the region. However, European nations such as France and Italy have pushed back against this move, arguing that prematurely ending the mission could create a vacuum that Hezbollah could exploit.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed off on a plan to wind down UNIFIL in six months, but faced opposition from European nations. The US has also cut funding to the peacekeeping force, which has been criticized by both Israel and Hezbollah supporters for its perceived ineffectiveness.
Despite the controversy, many Lebanese officials believe that UNIFIL is crucial for regional stability. Retired General Khalil Helou said that if the mandate were to end abruptly, it could have consequences for Lebanon’s stability. The United Nations also views the peacekeepers as critical to regional stability.
The final French draft resolution does not include a date for UNIFIL’s withdrawal, instead proposing a one-year extension of the mission and an “intention to work on a withdrawal.” However, even if the mandate is renewed, the peacekeeping force might be scaled down due to financial constraints. The US has considered reducing UNIFIL’s numbers while boosting its technological means to monitor the situation.
The peacekeeping force has faced criticism from both Israel and Hezbollah supporters for its perceived ineffectiveness in disarming Hezbollah’s military activities in southern Lebanon. Despite this, many believe that UNIFIL plays a vital role in maintaining regional stability.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/un-peacekeeping-force-lebanon-israel-trump-f11b5b48425de7a7c5c91978319b9623