China: The Security Situation in Lebanon Does Not Allow for the Termination of UNIFIL's Mission

China Calls for Reconsideration of UNIFIL Withdrawal from Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

China has called for a reconsideration of the United Nations Security Council's decision to end the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) by the end of 2026, emphasizing that the current security situation does not allow for the withdrawal of the force at this time.

China's Ambassador to the UN: The Security Situation in Lebanon Does Not Allow for the Termination of UNIFIL's Mission

China's Ambassador to the United Nations, Fu Cong, stated that it is essential to reconsider the decision to end the peacekeeping mission, noting that his country, which holds the presidency of the Security Council during May, is increasingly concerned about the situation in Lebanon.

He explained that the ceasefire is not effectively implemented, despite a decrease in the pace of shelling, adding that "the responsibility lies with Israel to stop this shelling on Lebanon."

The Role of UNIFIL and Its History in Southern Lebanon

UNIFIL was established in 1978 and is tasked with monitoring Lebanon's southern border with Israel, conducting field patrols to help maintain stability.

The Security Council unanimously approved last year to begin the gradual withdrawal of this mission by the end of 2026.

Military Escalation in Southern Lebanon and Over 2500 Casualties

Southern Lebanon has witnessed significant military escalation, with over 2500 people killed in Israeli airstrikes on various areas since March 2, following an attack by Hezbollah on Israel in support of Iran.

Israel responded with a ground and air military campaign that led to widespread destruction in the southern regions.

China Discusses the Future of UNIFIL with the UN and Calls for a Review of the Decision

Fu Cong confirmed that he recently discussed the UNIFIL mandate with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, stressing the need to reassess the decision to withdraw the international force.

He noted that the UN Secretariat is currently considering conducting a comprehensive review, with options expected to be presented in June to implement Resolution 1701.

Security Council Resolution 1701 and Its Role in Ending the 2006 War Between Hezbollah and Israel

Security Council Resolution 1701 is one of the most significant international resolutions, as it ended the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel and forms the legal framework for UNIFIL's operations in southern Lebanon.

Consensus Within the Security Council to Delay the Restructuring of UNIFIL

The Chinese ambassador clarified that "the overwhelming majority opinion" within the Security Council indicates that the current time is not suitable for restructuring UNIFIL, given the ongoing security tensions in the region.

The UN Considers Maintaining an International Presence After UNIFIL's Mandate Ends

In this context, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, stated last month that some form of UN presence may continue in Lebanon even after UNIFIL's mandate ends.