EU proposal to replace UNIFIL challenges US dominance
The article discusses Lebanon's search for an alternative to the "UNIFIL" force after its mission concludes. The Cabinet has considered establishing a European civilian and military mission for three years to support the implementation of Resolution 1701 and to strengthen the capabilities of Lebanese armed forces and security agencies. However, the government insists on rejecting any alternative proposal until the identity, mandate, and authority of the new force are clearly defined—especially since Washington opposes any replacement force and primarily supports "UNIFIL." The proposed mission would be limited to training and technical support for security institutions, without any military mandate. Nonetheless, the potential role of such a force raises questions about the future of security in the south: Will it become part of broader security arrangements after "UNIFIL," or will it merely serve as support for local institutions? It is believed that Lebanon is keen to avoid pre-approving any alternative international arrangement before clarifying details and its mandate, fearing embarrassment with the United States, which rejects any replacement force and prefers to oversee directly any future arrangements for the south.
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