Lebanon warns of security vacuum as UNIFIL peacekeeping mission nears end

UN peacekeepers have been monitoring the situation in southern Lebanon for nearly 50 years. Now, UNIFIL is coming to an end in December 2026. The U.S. and Israel blocked the renewal of the mission, accusing it of allowing Hezbollah's military expansion, even though peacekeepers don't have that authority. Lebanon's government is still trying to keep peacekeepers here, at least on a temporary basis, warning of a security vacuum if the mission withdraws. It's not just that. UN peacekeepers have been supporting communities and a state that have not had the chance to recover from years of conflict. Peacekeepers also provide security escorts, mine clearing operations and aid deliveries to isolated populations. And here in Far Hammam, doctors in the Indian contingent are providing much-needed medical support and supplies an essential lifeline I want to thank them from the bottom of my heart for their kindness and help I came out of the critical situation I was in God protect them I hope from the bottom of my heart the Indian contingent stays in Lebanon an international presence to help the Lebanese army extend its authority here is what the government wants but it is hoping any alternative force will also have a UN mandate. The shape and form of that presence have still not been agreed. UN officials are discussing options while in Beirut, but final decisions will be made elsewhere. I hope that the discussion at the Security Council will commence. It's important to us because we've been planning, of course, for the gradual withdrawal of UNIFIL, but we need to be flexible. We need to have a clear horizon. We need to know what would come, if anything, after UNIFIL. UNIFIL has long served as a neutral mediator between Lebanon and Israel, the result of a resolution calling on Israel to respect Lebanon's territory. But in the latest ceasefire arrangement in months, the U.S. and Israel sidelined UNIFIL. And the Israeli army now occupies parts of southern Lebanon and much of the mission's area of operations.