Lebanon Proposes New Buffer Force as UNIFIL Mandate Nears Expiration

The Lebanese government is urging the UN Security Council to authorize a new multinational force to replace the UN Interim Force in Lebanon, or UNIFIL, whose mandate is set to expire at the end of this year. According to two Western diplomats, the primary objective of this proposal is to maintain a buffer between Israeli and Lebanese forces during a period of transition, preventing a potential security vacuum in the south.

This diplomatic push comes amid significant disagreement among Security Council members regarding the future of the peacekeeping mission. While France is advocating for a temporary extension of the current mandate to ensure stability, the United States has firmly opposed any continuation of UNIFIL, leading Beirut to present a compromise proposal for a smaller, distinct force with a different operational profile.

Diplomatic strategies to secure council support

France is actively working to persuade council members that extending UNIFIL’s mandate, even temporarily, is necessary to avoid a chaotic transition. A French official stated that the goal is to ensure a smooth handover to whatever security arrangement follows. However, the US administration maintains its opposition to the extension, viewing the current force as ineffective or counterproductive.

In response to American resistance, Lebanese officials have proposed a 'UNIFIL-like' force that would be significantly smaller than the current deployment. According to reports from GN geopolitics/un, this new entity would serve specifically as a buffer in areas under Israeli control, addressing the US concern that the current large-scale presence may not be serving the region's long-term security needs.

Israeli concerns over peacekeeping presence

Israel has voiced strong opposition to the continued presence of an armed multinational force south of the Litani River. Danny Danon, Israel’s Ambassador to the UN, argued that UNIFIL’s presence inadvertently provides cover for Hezbollah to re-establish positions. He stated that the force's activities make it more difficult for Israel to ensure that armed groups do not return to those areas.

Danon emphasized that Israel believes the Lebanese Armed Forces should take full responsibility for border security, similar to the coordination arrangements between Israel and neighboring states like Egypt and Jordan. He stressed that Lebanon must demonstrate independence through actions rather than words, implying that a reduced or different type of international presence is preferable to the status quo.

Urgency of decision before deadline

With the mandate expiration approaching, the Security Council faces a tight deadline to reach a consensus by November. The US holds veto power, which could block any resolution that Washington deems insufficiently addressed its objections. However, there is concern that sustained international pressure might lead the US to refrain from blocking a carefully crafted alternative that balances security concerns with diplomatic realities.

Discussions are currently underway regarding the specific mandate, size, and operational rules for the proposed replacement force. The outcome will determine the security landscape in southern Lebanon for the coming years, potentially shifting the balance of power and international involvement in the region. Observers are watching closely to see if a compromise can be reached that satisfies both Lebanese and American interests.