Daijiworld Media Network - Beirut

Beirut, Jul 24: A group of Lebanese lawmakers has appealed to the United Nations to maintain the presence of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), warning that any premature withdrawal of the peacekeeping mission could undermine security and destabilise the region.

According to Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA), a parliamentary delegation on Thursday handed over a letter signed by 86 members of Parliament to UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jean Arnault in Beirut, urging the continuation and renewal of UNIFIL's mandate.

The lawmakers said the strong backing from legislators across political parties reflected a broad national consensus on the importance of the UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon. They highlighted UNIFIL's role in preserving stability, monitoring compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and helping prevent further escalation along the border.

The delegation argued that the circumstances that originally necessitated the deployment of UNIFIL still exist, pointing to ongoing violations and the fragile security environment in southern Lebanon.

They stressed that the peacekeeping force should continue to operate under its full mandate, particularly at a time when Lebanon and the wider region are facing heightened security challenges.

The lawmakers also emphasised that UNIFIL's responsibilities extend beyond maintaining peace, saying the mission would play a key role in implementing any future security arrangements, clearing landmines and unexploded ordnance, monitoring compliance with international agreements, and supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces and other state institutions in strengthening government authority across the country.

They cautioned that scaling back or ending the mission before the required security conditions are achieved could create a dangerous vacuum, potentially threatening both Lebanon's internal stability and regional security.

Responding to the delegation, UN Special Coordinator Jean Arnault said he would transmit the letter and supporting documents to the UN Secretary-General and members of the UN Security Council through official channels. He also expressed appreciation for the parliamentary initiative and reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation between Lebanon and the United Nations.

The UN Security Council last year approved a resolution extending UNIFIL's mandate until December 31, 2026, while authorising a gradual withdrawal of the peacekeeping mission thereafter.