France, Lebanon Seek UN Peacekeeper Extension Despite Israeli Objections

France and Lebanon are actively working to extend the mandate of the UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon (UNIFIL) beyond December 31, 2026, despite Israeli opposition. This effort is detailed in a letter from the Lebanese government to UN Security Council members, as reported by the Financial Times. Lebanon argues that ending UNIFIL's operations at the end of the year would be "premature" and proposes a limited extension of the current mission format.

France and most other Security Council members reportedly support Lebanon's request. However, Israel's UN Ambassador, Danny Danon, stated in a closed Security Council session that UNIFIL has failed in its mission for years, specifically citing its inability to prevent Hezbollah's military buildup. Danon asserted that the decision to end the mandate has already been made and there is no reason to reverse it.

The UN Security Council unanimously extended UNIFIL's mandate until December 31, 2026, in August 2025. This extension includes a provision for a gradual withdrawal of peacekeepers over the following year, as outlined in Resolution 2790.

While the United States previously supported the mission's termination, sources suggest Washington now acknowledges that some UNIFIL functions may need to be maintained in some form after its departure. It remains uncertain whether the U.S. will exercise its veto power if France introduces a new resolution to extend the mandate.

Attempts to establish an alternative international mission to replace UNIFIL have so far been unsuccessful. Discussions have included a reduced UN mission, a French or European contingent, and the participation of military forces from the U.S., Britain, and Italy. Israel insists that any new international force must be agreed upon through direct negotiations with Lebanon, mediated by the United States.