UN Chief Calls for Continued UN Military Presence in Lebanon Post-2026

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the necessity of sustaining a UN military presence in Lebanon beyond the conclusion of the current peacekeeping mission, UNIFIL, which is scheduled to end in late 2026. This assertion was made in a report submitted on Monday to the UN Security Council, as reviewed by Agence France-Presse.

The report from Guterres was highly anticipated, especially following Lebanon's involvement in regional conflicts.

According to the document, "Under all proposed options, the presence of UN military personnel to facilitate de-escalation, dialogue, liaison, and coordination, as well as to support the Lebanese Armed Forces, will be essential as a complement" to an enhanced political role for the UN representative in Lebanon.

Guterres further stated that "The United Nations, as the interim custodian of the Blue Line—the de facto border between Lebanon and Israel—will continue to play a vital role in impartially monitoring the Blue Line and ensuring its preservation."

In response to a request from the Security Council, the Secretary-General outlined three options in his report, suggesting a UN military force ranging from approximately 2,000 to over 5,500 troops. These forces would be tasked with monitoring the ceasefire and supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces.