Lebanese President Joseph Aoun Seeks UNIFIL Mandate Extension

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is leading a diplomatic push to ensure a continued international military presence in southern Lebanon as the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mandate approaches its December 31, 2026, expiration. Aoun asserts that the peacekeeping force is essential for stability and provides critical support to the Lebanese army. He stated that while extending the mandate is the primary goal, Lebanon is open to an alternative legal formula to keep international forces in the region if the UN mandate fails.

To advance these goals, Aoun is traveling to Rome to meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. These discussions will focus on a French-Italian proposal to replace UNIFIL with a multinational coalition. Aoun is also scheduled to meet Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican to discuss U.S.-sponsored direct negotiations with Israel.

The diplomatic effort occurs amid ongoing Israeli military operations in the Tyre, Marjayoun, and Bint Jbeil districts. While Lebanon and Israel signed a framework agreement in June regarding Hezbollah disarmament and Israeli withdrawal, implementation has faced difficulties. Israel and the United States have reportedly pressed for the removal of UNIFIL and have successfully excluded the mission from designated pilot zones.