The United Nations Security Council commenced negotiations on Monday over a French-drafted resolution to extend the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which currently expires on August 31, 2025. Simultaneously, the draft signals a long-term goal of eventual withdrawal, provided Lebanon assumes full security responsibilities.

What’s in the Draft Resolution

• Extension Period: The proposal aims to extend UNIFIL’s mandate for an additional year, through August 31, 2026, contingent on Lebanon gaining full territorial control and a broader political agreement being in place.

• Path to Withdrawal: It asserts the Security Council’s intention to work toward UNIFIL’s withdrawal once conditions allow the Lebanese government to be the “sole provider of security” in southern Lebanon.

• Support for Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF): The resolution urges the international community to increase equipment, material, and financial assistance to strengthen the LAF.

Political Dynamics at the Table

The United States, a pivotal veto power on the Council, favors only a one-year extension, possibly seeking a defined timeline for UNIFIL’s wind-down. While publicly silent, U.S. diplomats in closed-door discussions advocate a more limited extension. Europe, led by France, argues against a premature end that could create a security vacuum. France’s draft maintains flexibility, resisting unilateral time-bound deadlines.

Background on UNIFIL

Established in 1978, UNIFIL patrols Lebanon’s southern border near Israel and was significantly expanded following the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Its mandate is renewed annually. The most recent renewal occurred in August 2024 via UN Security Council Resolution 2749, extending UNIFIL through August 31, 2025.

What Comes Next

• Negotiations ahead: The Council is debating whether to adopt a flexible, open-ended extension that includes a roadmap toward withdrawal as advocated by France or a more time-limited extension favored by the U.S.

• Implications at stake: Withdrawal without robust Lebanese security capacity could destabilize southern Lebanon and embolden Hezbollah, according to French and European concerns.

• Next steps: A formal vote is expected in late August. If successful, the resolution will renew UNIFIL’s mandate while setting the stage for future political and security restructuring.