A group of Lebanese lawmakers presented a letter signed by 86 parliament members to UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jean Arnault, advocating for the renewal and continuity of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The lawmakers emphasized the importance of UNIFIL’s presence in southern Lebanon, highlighting its role in maintaining security, overseeing the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and averting further escalations. They underlined the necessity for UNIFIL to uphold its operational mandate, particularly in the current critical period for Lebanon and the broader region.
The delegation underscored that the circumstances that led to the establishment of UNIFIL persist due to ongoing violations and a delicate security environment. They emphasized the significance of UNIFIL not only in security maintenance but also in facilitating future arrangements, demining activities, compliance monitoring, and supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces and state institutions in extending governance throughout the country. Warning against prematurely reducing or terminating the mission, the lawmakers cautioned about the potential security vacuum that could jeopardize both Lebanese and regional stability.
In response, Arnault assured that he would transmit the letter and its accompanying materials to the UN secretary-general and Security Council members through proper channels. He commended the parliamentary initiative and its backing for sustained collaboration between Lebanon and the United Nations. Notably, the UN Security Council had previously passed a resolution in 2025 extending UNIFIL’s mandate until December 31, 2026, with provisions for a gradual withdrawal thereafter.
