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FIRST ON FOX — The U.S. may permit a contentious draft United Nations Security Council resolution that critics argue could strengthen Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, known as UNIFIL, is preparing for a significant renewal of its mandate at the end of August. A draft obtained by Fox News Digital reveals that this French-authored proposal aims to extend the mission for another year while omitting a definitive termination date. Intriguingly, it declares the intention for the Lebanese government to become the sole guarantor of security in southern Lebanon, on the condition that it maintains complete control over all Lebanese territory.
Addressing Hostilities in the Region
In acknowledging the cessation of hostilities, the draft also shifts focus towards criticisms of Israel, particularly regarding its actions against Hezbollah terrorists operating along the border. It notes, “Welcomes the cessation of hostilities arrangement between Israel and Lebanon of 26 November 2024 (S/2024/870), as a critical step towards full implementation of Resolution 1701.” However, it expresses serious concerns over repeated violations of this arrangement, specifically citing air and drone strikes on Lebanese territory. The resolution calls for both parties to faithfully adhere to these provisions, aided by the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon and UNIFIL.
Israel’s Withdrawal and Diplomatic Engagement
The draft actively encourages Israel to withdraw from its five remaining military positions in Lebanon, which it claims are necessary for countering Hezbollah. Furthermore, it invites Israel to partake in diplomatic efforts to establish a clear border with Lebanon. If this resolution passes as currently structured, Lebanon would assume responsibility for security at these posts, with UNIFIL’s assistance.
Strengthening Lebanese Armed Forces
The resolution aims to eliminate unauthorized armed personnel in southern Lebanon, primarily targeting Hezbollah operatives. It encourages the international community to support the Lebanese Armed Forces, enabling them to ensure that no armed factions exist between the Blue Line and the Litani River.
Historical Context of UNIFIL’s Mandate
Since the Second Lebanon War in 2006, the U.N. Security Council has implemented Resolution 1701, detailing that UNIFIL and the LAF should collaborate to hinder Hezbollah’s activities in southern Lebanon. Critics, however, contend that the proposed draft merely reinforces a system that has already proven ineffective.
A senior policy analyst at the Jewish Institute for National Security of America, known for voicing concerns regarding the renewal of UNIFIL’s mandate, urges the U.S. to veto the current proposal.
“UNIFIL has demonstrated, throughout its decades of operation, an inability to fulfill its stated objectives. Created in 1978 amidst the chaotic Lebanese Civil War, its foundation was intended to stabilize Lebanon and prevent broader regional turmoil,” stated Yoni Tobin. He elaborated that UNIFIL has repeatedly failed to act against Hezbollah’s militarization, despite having the mandate to do so.
Hezbollah’s Ongoing Threat
Since the resolution’s establishment, Hezbollah has remained active, with Israel uncovering extensive tunnel networks similar to those employed by Hamas. The group notably escalated its involvement in the conflict following the October 7 massacre by Hamas against Israel.
UNIFIL’s Record of Ignoring Hezbollah’s Arsenal Growth
Critics continue to point to numerous failures attributed to the U.N. Forces in the region. David Friedman, formerly the U.S. Ambassador during the Trump administration, remarked on UNIFIL’s apparent inaction, stating, “Among the numerous failures by the United Nations in the Middle East, UNIFIL stands out as perhaps the most spectacular. Tasked with ensuring Hezbollah would not rearm post-2006 conflict, it merely observed as the organization became one of the largest non-state military factions globally.”
In an October 2024 report, Fox News Digital highlighted UNIFIL’s shortcomings, specifically its inability to curb Hezbollah’s rapid accumulation of rockets and military resources since the resolution’s inception.
Challenges Within the Lebanese Army
Experts suggest that pro-Hezbollah officials and soldiers within Lebanon’s army create persistent challenges. Reports emerged in late January suggesting that a chief within the LAF had sent classified documents to Hezbollah. This intelligence, managed by the LAF’s Suhil Bahij Gharb, allegedly originated from facilities sharing oversight with the U.S., France, and UNIFIL.
Uncertain U.S. Response
The U.S. position on the resolution remains unclear, sparking speculation regarding potential revisions to the French-authored text.
While the U.S. mission refrained from commenting, the U.N. missions of Israel and France have similarly not responded to inquiries from Fox News Digital.
Fox News Digital’s Benjamin Weinthal contributed to this report.
