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Why is UNIFIL’s future in Lebanon uncertain?
UNIFIL’s future is uncertain because of rising tensions between Israel, Hezbollah, and the international community. Israel wants to withdraw from Lebanon, citing concerns over Hezbollah’s growing strength and the perceived ineffectiveness of UNIFIL. Meanwhile, European countries warn that pulling out too soon could destabilize the region further. The US and Israel are pushing for a shorter mandate, which raises questions about regional peace and security.
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What is UNIFIL’s role in Lebanon?
UNIFIL was established in 1978 to oversee Israeli troop withdrawals from Lebanon and to help maintain peace along the border. Its mission has expanded over the years to include monitoring Hezbollah’s activities and supporting Lebanese stability. Despite its long presence, recent regional tensions have challenged its effectiveness and raised debates about whether it can continue to fulfill its mandate.
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How could Hezbollah activity impact regional peace?
Hezbollah’s ongoing military activities and infrastructure development pose a significant threat to regional stability. Israeli strikes on Hezbollah targets have increased tensions, and if Hezbollah’s influence continues to grow, it could lead to more conflicts. The international community worries that a weakened UNIFIL might not be able to prevent escalation, risking wider instability in the Middle East.
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Why are the US and Israel pushing to end UNIFIL’s mission?
The US and Israel believe UNIFIL has become ineffective and that Hezbollah’s military strength has increased beyond what the peacekeeping force can manage. They argue that a phased withdrawal will help diminish Hezbollah’s influence and prevent future conflicts. However, this approach raises concerns about leaving Lebanon without sufficient international oversight, which could lead to chaos and violence.
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What are the risks if UNIFIL’s mandate ends?
Ending UNIFIL’s mandate prematurely could lead to increased violence, a power vacuum, and further destabilization of Lebanon. Without international peacekeeping, Hezbollah might expand its influence unchecked, and regional tensions could escalate into open conflict. Many experts warn that a sudden withdrawal could undo years of fragile stability and spark wider regional unrest.