Why Protecting UNIFIL Is Lebanon’s Last Hope for Lasting Peace
Overview
- UNIFIL has served as Lebanon’s vital guardian for nearly five decades, preventing the collapse into chaos.
- Hastily ending UNIFIL’s mission risks empowering Hezbollah and igniting a regional storm.
- The US push for abrupt withdrawal threatens Lebanon’s sovereignty and could plunge the region into turmoil.
UNIFIL: The Backbone of Lebanese Stability
Since 1978, UNIFIL has been an unwavering pillar supporting Lebanon’s fragile peace. Imagine it as a steady hand holding the delicate balance of a towering Jenga tower—remove it too soon, and everything could collapse. Its impact isn't just symbolic; it’s concrete. For example, after the 2006 war, UNIFIL’s presence helped prevent full-scale conflict from reigniting, providing a layer of security that empowered Lebanese authorities to rebuild stability. This peacekeeping force has helped thousands of innocent civilians avoid the horrors of war, proving time and again that its role is indispensable for Lebanon’s future—without it, chaos could swiftly reemerge.
The Short-Sightedness of US-Driven Withdrawal Calls
Lately, the United States has been aggressively advocating for the immediate end of UNIFIL, insisting that Lebanon should take full responsibility for its security. But such a rush is akin to throwing away the lifeboat in the middle of a storm—reckless and dangerous. History reminds us that abrupt withdrawals, like those from Iraq or Afghanistan, frequently lead to chaos, violence, and long-lasting instability. Hezbollah, backed quietly by Iran, continues to expand its influence, lurking in the shadows waiting for the perfect moment to strike if UNIFIL departs hastily. Removing this stabilizing force now could be a disaster waiting to happen—destroying years of fragile peace and opening the floodgates to chaos.
Premature Exit: A Recipe for Catastrophe
Think of Lebanon’s peace as a fragile crystal—beautiful but easily shattered if mishandled. Pulling out UNIFIL too soon is like removing the safety net from beneath a tightrope walker. Lebanon’s government, already strained by internal divisions, would find it nearly impossible to counter Hezbollah’s growing power without UNIFIL’s support. Evidence from past crises shows how early withdrawals or neglect have reignited violence, often after periods of calm—like how the 2000 Israeli pullback led to renewed clashes shortly after. Alert policymakers must realize that peace does not come through haste, but through strategic patience and unwavering commitment—lest they risk plunging Lebanon into even deeper turmoil.
References
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