Lebanese President to visit Rome for talks on future of UN peacekeepers in south Lebanon

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is set to visit Rome this week for crucial discussions regarding the future of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The peacekeeping force's mandate is set to expire this year, prompting Italy and France to propose establishing a multinational coalition to succeed UNIFIL, a move that has significant implications for regional stability.

During his visit, President Aoun will meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The talks will focus on the French-Italian initiative to create a replacement force for UNIFIL. Lebanon, along with other regional stakeholders, is concerned about the potential for a security vacuum should UNIFIL withdraw without a viable alternative in place. This concern is amplified by Israel's opposition to extending UNIFIL's current mandate.

Aoun's agenda also includes a meeting with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, where he will brief the pontiff on Lebanon's ongoing negotiations with Israel. These direct talks, sponsored by the United States, commenced after Hezbollah's involvement in the Middle East war in March. Lebanon's preferred outcome is an extension of UNIFIL's mandate, but Aoun has indicated that a secondary option involves a framework ensuring the continued presence of international forces in southern Lebanon, coordinated with the Lebanese army.

UNIFIL, currently comprising approximately 7,500 personnel from nearly 50 countries, has been stationed in south Lebanon since 1978. Despite its long presence, the force has not consistently prevented conflict. The potential withdrawal raises concerns, particularly given the intermittent Israeli strikes and demolition operations in southern Lebanon, despite a recent lull in fighting. The discussions in Rome are critical for determining the security architecture of southern Lebanon moving forward.