The United Nations Security Council decided in 2025 to start an orderly and safe drawdown of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) by 2027. The 10,000-strong peacekeeping mission’s mandate ends in December 2026. This move follows pressure from Israel and the United States, who accuse UNIFIL of failing to disarm Hezbollah and shielding its positions. The Lebanese government’s attempts to disarm Hezbollah face stiff resistance from the group itself, complicating regional stability.
Background of UNIFIL and Its Mandate
UNIFIL was established to maintain peace along the Lebanon-Israel border. Its mandate includes monitoring ceasefires and supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). The force has struggled with accusations of ineffectiveness, especially regarding Hezbollah’s armed status. The Security Council’s decision to withdraw reflects changing geopolitical pressures and doubts about UNIFIL’s role in containing Hezbollah’s military power.
Hezbollah’s Origins and Role in Lebanon
Hezbollah emerged in the early 1980s as a resistance group against Israeli occupation of South Lebanon. It has grown into a powerful political and military force with strong ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The group holds seats in Lebanon’s parliament and enjoys support beyond its Shia base. Hezbollah justifies its arms as necessary to defend Lebanon from Israel, positioning itself as a partner to the Lebanese state rather than a rival.
Impact of Recent Conflicts on Hezbollah
The 2023-24 conflict with Israel severely weakened Hezbollah, including the loss of key leaders. Israeli military actions have limited Hezbollah’s freedom of movement and operational capabilities. Despite setbacks, Hezbollah has maintained some internal support by denoting Israeli aggression. The group’s ability to carry out only limited rocket strikes indicates reduced military strength but continued resilience.
Challenges of Disarmament and Lebanese Politics
Lebanon’s government aims to disarm Hezbollah but lacks the capacity and political consensus to enforce it. Hezbollah refuses to relinquish arms, citing national defence needs. The Lebanese state is weakened by economic crisis and political fragmentation, further complicating disarmament efforts. International proposals, including an economic zone in southern Lebanon, seek to pressure Hezbollah but face resistance.
Regional and International Dynamics
Israel and the US push for Hezbollah’s disarmament to reduce threats in the region. Arab states back Lebanon’s government to restore stability and limit Iranian influence. However, Hezbollah’s entrenched role and Israel’s ongoing military actions perpetuate instability. The situation reflects broader Middle East tensions involving Iran, Israel, and Western powers.
Hezbollah’s Self-Characterisation and Strategy
Hezbollah describes itself as a supporter of the Lebanese Armed Forces, not a substitute. It claims to prevent Israeli occupation and maintain national defence. This narrative helps justify its armed status domestically and internationally. Hezbollah’s leadership insists on maintaining weapons as a symbol of honour and protection, rejecting disarmament efforts despite pressure.
Future Prospects for Lebanon’s Stability
The UNIFIL withdrawal will shift security responsibilities to Lebanese forces amid unresolved tensions. Hezbollah’s continued armament and Israel’s military presence in South Lebanon create a fragile security environment. Political and economic reforms in Lebanon remain essential but difficult under current conditions. The international community’s role will be critical in supporting Lebanon’s sovereignty and peace.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the challenges of peacekeeping missions like the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in conflict zones with non-state armed actors.
- Examine the role of proxy groups in Middle Eastern geopolitics and analyse their impact on state sovereignty and regional stability.
- Estimate the effects of economic crises on political stability and governance in fragile states, with reference to Lebanon’s recent history.
- Point out the strategic significance of Lebanon in the Arab-Israeli conflict and discuss how external powers influence its internal security dynamics.
