Lebanon Seeks International Presence in South

Major General Diodato Abanyara, head of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission, stated that handing over some troop positions to the Lebanese Army will be difficult because most of these positions are located within areas controlled by Israeli forces. This situation requires ensuring that both the United Nations and Lebanon are capable of managing the responsibilities before the current mandate expires at the end of the year. He emphasized the importance of executing a smooth transition to enable other entities or a new mission, in coordination with the Lebanese Army, to ensure humanitarian aid is delivered and tensions are reduced in sensitive areas. He expressed hope for the renewal of UNIFIL's mandate but noted that if no new Security Council decision is issued, the forces will be forced to conclude their operations. He also underscored the importance of the United Nations' presence in the south to maintain stability, especially amidst the ongoing tension between Lebanon and Israel. Lebanon is currently exploring alternatives to extend the mandate or to establish an alternative monitoring force, with a preference to avoid leaving the south vacant to prevent a security vacuum.

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