UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated on Monday that maintaining UN peacekeepers in Lebanon remains essential even after the current mission’s mandate expires later this year. The statement follows a 2023 UN Security Council decision, influenced by the United States, to end the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on December 31, 2026. Guterres submitted three alternative proposals recommending the continued deployment of 2,000 to 5,500 UN personnel to monitor the 120-kilometer Blue Line and support the Lebanese Armed Forces.

According to AFP, Guterres emphasized that peacekeepers are vital for reducing tensions, strengthening dialogue, and assisting Lebanon’s military. The Blue Line, marking the de facto border between Lebanon and Israel, remains a flashpoint amid ongoing clashes involving Hezbollah. Lebanon’s government and its UN envoy expressed support for the UN presence, while the United States and Israel oppose extending the mission. China’s ambassador urged the Security Council to act responsibly to avoid a security vacuum.

UNIFIL currently includes about 7,500 peacekeepers from 50 countries stationed in southern Lebanon. Established in 1978, the mission has sought to maintain stability despite recurring hostilities.