Erdogan Exploits Situation to Gain Foothold in Lebanon

“The end of the UNIFIL mandate in Lebanon is an important development.” This was stated this evening, Thursday, by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Alongside Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, he announced his intention to send troops to the border with Israel.

The two issued a joint statement following their meeting in Ankara, where Erdogan announced that Turkey is interested in participating in a new security initiative to replace the UN peacekeeping force. The decision to end the mandate was reached last August, when the UN Security Council determined that the force would begin its withdrawal in 2027.

Israel and the USA promoted this decision, opposing the continued activity of the force, which was established nearly 50 years ago. Starting in January, a one-year withdrawal period will commence, at the end of which the force is set to be disbanded entirely.

“Turkey wants to ensure Lebanon’s sovereignty and support regional security. The end of the mandate is an important development,” Erdogan claimed.

UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) was established in 1978 following Operation Litani conducted by the IDF. Following the 2006 Second Lebanon War, UN Security Council Resolution 1701 granted the force enforcement powers to act against Hezbollah. In practice, however, the force allowed the organization to build up its military capabilities and establish a terrorist army in southern Lebanon. The force currently includes 10,800 personnel from 47 countries.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed hope for the development of “ambitious” relations between the two nations:

“This is a decisive moment where we are rebuilding our region and reshaping our future. I am sure that this visit will mark the beginning of a new phase in Lebanon-Turkey relations, which will focus on partnership and trust.”