Qatar, Pakistan unveil new Lebanon peacekeeping mechanism, does not include Israel, France, UNIFIL

Mediators Qatar and Pakistan have unveiled a new deconfliction mechanism aimed at terminating military operations in Lebanon, establishing a direct US-Iranian track for the process. The announcement, made via a joint statement, suggests the involvement of the Lebanese government but notably excludes Israel, France, and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which have previously played roles in peacekeeping efforts.

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major progress to end Lebanon War

Details on how this new mechanism will operate or resolve the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah remain unclear. Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, hailed the initiative as "major progress to end Lebanon War," identifying the "Lebanon deconfliction cell" as its first significant test.

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Lebanon deconfliction cell

However, Israel has expressed strong reservations. President Isaac Herzog asserted that any negotiations to end the conflict should be conducted directly between Israel and Lebanon, criticizing the inclusion of Iran as "Iranian extortion." He argued that Iran's involvement weakens Lebanon and leaves Israel exposed to constant threats.

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any negotiations to end the Israel-Lebanon conflict should be done by the two countries themselves and not by 'Iranian extortion.'

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that the IDF maintains complete freedom of action to address any threats in southern Lebanon. He emphasized that his directive to the IDF remains unchanged, assuring full support from the nation for their operations.

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Tying Iran to Lebanon not only leaves Israel exposed to constant threat; it leaves the Lebanese weak and powerless, and will prevent their president and government from moving forward.