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2mo ago

France Proposes UN Peacekeepers to Expedite Israeli Withdrawal from Lebanon

Israel seeks to extend its presence in southern Lebanon past the February 18 deadline, while Lebanon rejects the proposal outright.

A vehicle of the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission in Lebanon drives next to a roundabout in the southern Lebanese village of al-Taybeh, near the border with Israel, on Feb. 4.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot attends the 55th annual World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos, Switzerland, January 23, 2025. REUTERS/Yves Herman/File Photo
United Nations peacekeepers drive past the rubble of buildings in the southern Lebanese village of Yarine during the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah

Overview

  • France has proposed deploying United Nations peacekeepers, including French troops, to replace Israeli forces in southern Lebanon to meet the February 18 withdrawal deadline.
  • Israel has requested a 10-day extension to maintain control over five key positions in southern Lebanon, citing security concerns.
  • Lebanon's parliamentary speaker, Nabih Berri, has firmly rejected Israel's request, emphasizing the need for full compliance with the ceasefire agreement.
  • The November 2024 truce agreement requires the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the removal of Hezbollah combatants, and the deployment of the Lebanese army in the region.
  • UN officials and international experts stress the importance of robust peacekeeping measures and adherence to Resolution 1701 to ensure long-term stability in the region.