On Friday, September 25, 2026, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam addressed the UN General Assembly, emphasizing the need for a new international force to replace the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) as its mandate is set to expire in December. Salam warned against the risk of a "vacuum" that could be created if UNIFIL withdraws without a replacement. He stressed that the new force should ensure continued surveillance, reporting, and liaison functions.
The UNIFIL, deployed since 1978, currently consists of 7,500 peacekeepers from over 50 countries, stationed along the 120-kilometer Blue Line in southern Lebanon, which serves as a de facto border between Lebanon and Israel. Under US pressure, the UN Security Council decided in August to set a December deadline for the end of UNIFIL's mandate. Salam's call for a new force comes as the region faces ongoing tensions and challenges.
In his speech, Salam also emphasized the need for Israel to fully withdraw from Lebanese territory and for Lebanon to extend state authority over its entire territory, ensuring that arms are held exclusively by the state. The Hezbollah, backed by Tehran, has so far opposed disarmament. A framework agreement was reached in June between Lebanon and Israel under US auspices, which provides for the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces and the disarmament of Hezbollah.
However, the implementation of the agreement has stalled. Salam urged the completion of the agreement's translation into action, with a clear timeline and verification mechanism for its implementation. The agreement aims to end a decades-long conflict between Lebanon and Israel. The Lebanese prime minister's statements reflect the country's ongoing efforts to address regional security challenges.
The UNIFIL was initially deployed in 1978 to oversee the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. Its mandate has been extended several times, with the current mandate set to expire in December. The force has played a crucial role in maintaining stability along the Blue Line and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid to affected areas.
Salam's speech at the UN General Assembly highlights the complexities of the Middle East peace process and the need for international cooperation to address regional security challenges. The establishment of a new international force would require agreement among UN member states and would likely involve negotiations with various countries.
The situation in southern Lebanon remains fragile, with ongoing tensions between Lebanon and Israel. The international community continues to play a crucial role in supporting efforts to achieve stability and peace in the region. The UN's role in Lebanon, including the potential establishment of a new force, will likely remain a key aspect of regional diplomacy in the coming months.
Key points
- Lebanon's Prime Minister Nawaf Salam calls for a new international force to replace UNIFIL in southern Lebanon.
- The new force should ensure continued surveillance, reporting, and liaison functions.
- The UNIFIL's mandate is set to expire in December 2026.
