20 September 2026 — The commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon says a carefully managed transition is essential before the mission begins its scheduled withdrawal.
Major General Diodato Abagnara said UNIFIL is coordinating with other UN agencies and the Lebanese Armed Forces so humanitarian and security responsibilities do not suddenly disappear.
The Security Council has directed the nearly five-decade-old mission to begin withdrawing after its mandate ends on 31 December 2026 unless members adopt a new decision.
UNIFIL has continued monitoring hostilities and has also escorted humanitarian convoys to communities affected by renewed fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.
Abagnara acknowledged that transferring some peacekeeping positions could be especially difficult because more than half are located in areas now controlled by Israeli forces.
He described continuing demolitions near Mansouri as a violation of UN Security Council resolutions, while Israel says its operations target Hezbollah infrastructure.
Lebanon has requested continued international support, and diplomatic discussions are considering an extension or a successor mission to prevent a security and humanitarian vacuum in the south.
References
- Reuters — UNIFIL commander stresses a smooth transition
- Associated Press — Lebanon security talks address the post-UNIFIL period
- United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon — Mission information
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