UN peacekeeping chief in Lebanon says smooth transition is critical before pull-out

UNIFIL head Major General Diodato Abagnara stated that a smooth transition to other UN agencies and Lebanese troops is critical before the peacekeeping force begins withdrawing from southern Lebanon at the end of 2026. He expressed doubt over the logistics of handing over posts, particularly those in areas where the IDF has taken control after clearing Hezbollah infrastructure. The UN Security Council ordered the withdrawal, raising concerns about the vacuum left behind and aid continuity.

The head of UN peacekeepers in Lebanon, Major General Diodato Abagnara, said on Saturday that a smooth transition to other UN agencies and Lebanese troops is critical before UNIFIL begins withdrawing from southern Lebanon at the end of 2026. Abagnara spoke to Reuters from a position in southern Lebanon, expressing doubt over the logistics of handing over some posts, particularly those in areas where the IDF took control after clearing Hezbollah terror infrastructure. He said UNIFIL is already working with the UN's country team to ensure humanitarian assistance continues. The UN Security Council ordered the withdrawal, triggering concerns about the vacuum left behind and whether aid deliveries can continue. A US-backed plan for the Lebanese army to disarm Hezbollah has stalled, and diplomats are scrambling for alternatives, including a possible extension or a new multinational mission. Abagnara said an extension would be an honor but that without a new Security Council decision, the force must stop operating at the end of the year.