Lebanese Maronite Bishops seek alternative to UNIFIL

The Maronite Bishops Council, led by Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rai, has called for a consensus on alternative international or multinational forces to replace UNIFIL. This follows the scheduled gradual withdrawal of UN peacekeeping forces in South Lebanon, which is set to conclude this December.

The Council expressed strong condemnation of Israeli military operations in southern Lebanese villages and towns, urging international powers to enforce existing framework agreements. They emphasized that any replacement force must possess a firm mandate to support the Lebanese military in reclaiming territory up to the international borders.

In related discussions, Lebanese officials have indicated that while UNIFIL remains vital, Beirut is exploring options for friendly nations to assist with humanitarian, educational, and security needs if the UN mandate is not extended. Meanwhile, reports indicate that existing ceasefire frameworks and security zones have faced significant challenges due to ongoing military strikes and the destruction of infrastructure in southern Lebanon.