UNIFIL has outlived its purpose after decades of failing to curb Hezbollah’s buildup in southern Lebanon. The force often observed rather than enforced, as Hezbollah stockpiled weapons and built tunnels. With Israel degrading Hezbollah’s leadership, the Lebanese army — backed by international support — can now assume full security responsibilities.
Ending UNIFIL too soon risks a security vacuum Hezbollah could exploit, destabilizing the region. The force remains vital to backing the Lebanese army and pressing for Israel’s full withdrawal. With conditions still fragile despite progress, peacekeepers provide essential stability as Lebanon works to extend full sovereignty across its territory.
UNIFIL’s exit affirms that Lebanon must control its own defense without foreign interference. For decades, peacekeepers failed to stop Israeli violations of sovereignty, while Hezbollah’s resistance deterred aggression and safeguarded the south. With UNIFIL leaving, Lebanon can assert true independence, relying on its people’s resistance and national army to protect its land.
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