Germany Proposes EU Force to Replace UNIFIL in Lebanon

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has proposed that a European Union force replace the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) after the mission’s mandate expires. In an interview with RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland, Wadephul said the presence of EU troops must be considered to avoid a security vacuum following the end of the UNIFIL operation. “We must test whether we can ensure that no security vacuum emerges through European forces after the UNIFIL mission concludes,” Wadephul said in the interview published on Friday. The UNIFIL mandate is scheduled to end on 31 December 2026. Wadephul argued that a new security mechanism is needed to maintain stability in Lebanon after the UN mission concludes. He assessed that the presence of European Union forces could help create a more conducive situation in the Lebanon-Israel border region. “Creating the conditions for the Israeli army to withdraw without Hizbullah returning with its terror,” Wadephul stated regarding the objective of deploying European troops. Beyond security concerns, Wadephul also noted positive political developments in Lebanon. He suggested that a more stable government makes Lebanon one of the most promising countries in the Middle East at present. The proposal comes as European nations continue to seek ways to maintain regional stability amid rising tensions, while also striving to balance diplomatic relations with both Israel and Lebanon and prevent the resurgence of armed conflict along the border.