86 Lebanese MPs Sign Petition Urging UNIFIL Extension Amid Security Concerns

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with MP Melhem Khalaf, who led a parliamentary delegation calling for the extension of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Khalaf, speaking on behalf of the delegation after the meeting, stressed continued support for UNIFIL’s presence to prevent a security vacuum in southern Lebanon. He cited the force’s responsibilities in verifying Israeli troop withdrawal, maintaining security and stability, and assisting the Lebanese Armed Forces in asserting state sovereignty.

Parliamentary consensus and diplomatic outreach

The delegation presented a petition signed by 86 members of parliament. Separately, 20 MPs from across political affiliations and parliamentary blocs visited the president to discuss the matter. Aoun underscored the importance of the issue and briefed the delegation on his ongoing international diplomatic efforts related to UNIFIL.

Contingency planning if extension fails

Khalaf stated that, should UNIFIL’s mandate not be extended, an alternative United Nations peacekeeping presence must be maintained in southern Lebanon under any feasible arrangement. He added that parallel diplomatic engagement would continue with members of the UN Security Council and countries contributing troops to the international force.