Lebanese leader hails extension of mandate of UNIFIL

(MENAFN) Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has expressed support for the decision to extend the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), describing it as a reflection of broad international agreement aimed at maintaining stability in southern Lebanon.

Aoun made the comments during a phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, following a unanimous vote by the United Nations Security Council to prolong UNIFIL’s mandate for a final period through December 31, 2026, according to statements from Lebanon’s presidency.

The president also expressed gratitude to France for its proactive role at the United Nations and its efforts in coordinating with other Security Council members, which contributed to the consensus on prolonging the mission.

The Security Council’s unanimous approval came just days before UNIFIL’s current mandate was set to expire on August 31. The French-drafted resolution directs UNIFIL to conclude operations by the end of 2026 and to initiate a safe and orderly reduction of its personnel within a year.

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