France and Lebanon are pushing to extend the UN peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon beyond the end of 2026, warning that a rapid withdrawal could create a security vacuum.

Intelligence summary

France and Lebanon are pushing to extend the UN peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon beyond the end of 2026, warning that a rapid withdrawal could create a security vacuum. Israel opposes an extension, arguing UNIFIL has failed to prevent Hizbollah’s military build-up. The mission currently has more than 7,000 personnel, while efforts to establish a replacement force have stalled. Source: FT