Is the UNIFIL mission in southern Lebanon about to come to an end? If the USA and Israel have their way, the answer is yes. As the Jerusalem Post reports with reference to government circlesthe two countries have agreed not to extend the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.
The US government is said to have already made the decision – Israel is said to have agreed to it without raising any objections. The official vote in the UN Security Council is expected in the coming months.
A withdrawal of the blue helmets would also have a direct impact on Austria: the Austrian Armed Forces has been one of the largest and most reliable troop contributors to UNIFIL for years.
Just a few days ago, the now 28th Austrian UNIFIL contingent was officially discharged – with 154 male and eight female soldiers deployed.
“With their expertise, readiness and commitment, our soldiers are making an indispensable contribution to peace and stability in Lebanon,” said Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner at the farewell ceremony. “Especially in a time of global uncertainty, their deployment is a strong sign of the responsibility that Austria assumes internationally. I would like to thank each and every one of them for their willingness to stand up for security and humanity far from home.”
