Lebanese President Emphasizes UN Peacekeeping Mission Continuity

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Aminah Mohammed to discuss the future of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Aoun emphasized that Lebanon's priority is to maintain the UNIFIL mission and renew its mandate, which expires on December 31, 2026. He highlighted the crucial role UNIFIL plays in maintaining security and providing logistical and engineering capabilities in southern Lebanon.

Aoun expressed his openness to discussing the development of UNIFIL's scope to address emerging field requirements and conditions. He assured that Lebanon is committed to continuing the mission, either in its current form or through an alternative mechanism under the UN umbrella, to prevent a security or institutional vacuum in southern Lebanon. The Lebanese President also emphasized the importance of Resolution 1701 as a legal reference and foundation for future international arrangements in southern Lebanon.

Deputy Secretary-General Aminah Mohammed reaffirmed the UN's commitment to supporting Lebanon and maintaining stability in the region. She stressed that a security vacuum in southern Lebanon would have severe consequences for the local population and stability. The UN is dedicated to helping Lebanese citizens return to their homes, supporting recovery and reconstruction efforts, and strengthening Lebanese institutions.

Aoun and Mohammed discussed the transition phase related to the future of UNIFIL. The Lebanese President emphasized the importance of maintaining international attention and engagement, particularly during this critical period. He also highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to address the issue of exclusive state control over weapons, which requires a multi-faceted strategy encompassing military, political, social, economic, humanitarian, and developmental aspects.

Aoun noted that a sustainable solution to the issue of weapons requires creating conditions that foster citizen trust in the state and its institutions, ensuring security, services, and a decent standard of living. He warned that a solely military approach would not be sufficient to achieve the desired objectives. The Lebanese President expressed appreciation for the UN's support and role in promoting stability and assisting the Lebanese people.

The meeting between Aoun and Mohammed reflects the ongoing cooperation between Lebanon and the UN. The two parties acknowledged the significance of maintaining stability in southern Lebanon and the region. They also emphasized the importance of continued international engagement and support to address the complex challenges facing Lebanon.

The discussion between Aoun and Mohammed comes as the UNIFIL mission prepares for its transition phase. The Lebanese President's emphasis on maintaining the mission's continuity and exploring alternative mechanisms under the UN umbrella underscores Lebanon's commitment to regional stability and security. The UN's continued support and engagement will be crucial in addressing the challenges and opportunities arising from this transition.

Key points

• Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasizes the importance of continuing the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission to maintain stability in southern Lebanon.
• Aoun expresses openness to discussing the development of UNIFIL's scope to address emerging field requirements and conditions.
• The UN reaffirms its commitment to supporting Lebanon and maintaining stability in the region, particularly during the transition phase related to the future of UNIFIL.