During a recent address at the United Nations in New York on May 2, 2026, Fu Cong urged a re-evaluation of the UN's decision to withdraw peacekeeping forces from Lebanon as regional tensions escalate.
This statement emerges as Lebanon continues to experience instability, despite a declared ceasefire. Fu Cong highlighted that the current state does not signify genuine peace but rather a mere reduction in hostilities.
UNIFIL, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, has been crucial in fostering stability in southern Lebanon for several decades, initially tasked with overseeing the departure of Israeli troops and later expanded after the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
The UN Security Council voted last year to gradually withdraw these forces, with an expected completion by December 2026. However, many nations are now rethinking that course in light of worsening security developments.
Fu stated that a number of Security Council members feel this is not the appropriate moment for withdrawal, emphasizing the necessity of UNIFIL's continued presence to maintain regional stability and deter further conflict escalation.
Clashes in Lebanon have escalated in recent months, leading to numerous airstrikes and exchanges of gunfire. Reports indicate that thousands have died and over one million have been displaced due to the turmoil.
UN peacekeepers face considerable dangers, with several casualties reported among international personnel engaged in critical tasks like clearing explosives and facilitating humanitarian efforts.
Antonio Guterres has condemned the assaults on peacekeepers, underscoring their vital roles when they came under fire. He has called for enhanced protections for UN members in conflict areas.
China is awaiting a comprehensive UN report before formulating its final stance. However, it has emphasized the importance of careful reconsideration regarding the withdrawal to ensure lasting peace and security in the region.
