The U.S. and Israel reject Unifil and Hezbollah’s interests align with theirs

The UN Security Council is holding closed-door consultations today at France’s request to discuss the future of the international presence in southern Lebanon, as UNIFIL’s mandate nears its end in late 2026. The U.S. is pushing to end the force in its current form, Israel opposes its continuation, and France is exploring possible alternatives.

The debate follows years of tension with both sides. Israel has targeted UNIFIL positions and personnel, while accusing the force of failing to curb Hezbollah’s military presence south of the Litani.

UNIFIL patrols have also faced obstruction and attacks in several southern villages, while documenting armed groups and military infrastructure outside state control.

For different reasons, both Israel and Hezbollah may benefit from a reduced international monitoring role. The key question now is what will replace UNIFIL and how the border and Resolution 1701 will be monitored?