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Diplomatic and military circles in Lebanon are abuzz with developments surrounding the upcoming renewal of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mandate, set for the end of August. Amid ongoing tensions between peacekeepers and residents in southern Lebanon, contributing countries have stepped up their diplomatic negotiations.

For the first time, China is positioning itself to play a more influential role within the mission. While no formal proposal has been submitted, sources within the Chinese contingent in southern Lebanon have leaked details of Beijing’s intentions. China is reportedly prepared to increase its financial support contribution to UNIFIL, aiming to offset potential US budget cuts, but in return, it is demanding a more prominent leadership role.

Specifically, China is eyeing command responsibilities within UNIFIL’s maritime component, or, if possible, within its central operations command. Beijing is said to have offered advanced naval vessels, surveillance drones, and radar systems to bolster the force’s maritime surveillance capabilities. It has also signaled readiness to expand its 500-strong contingent, which has primarily served in logistical, medical, and humanitarian roles since 2008.

However, China’s aspirations face stiff resistance, primarily from the United States and its European allies, including France, Italy, Spain, and Germany. Since UNIFIL’s expansion after Israel’s 2006 war on Lebanon, France, Italy, and Spain have alternated in leading the mission, with only one term held by Ireland. France has maintained near-continuous control over the operations command.

Though the US is not an official troop contributor, it exerts substantial influence over UN peacekeeping missions through the Security Council. Neither China nor Russia has held meaningful leadership positions within UNIFIL, and past attempts, such as a Russian civilian nomination to a political post, were blocked by Israel, the US, and their allies.

As China seeks to increase its footprint, geopolitical tensions within the UN Security Council are poised to shape the future of UNIFIL, and by extension, the fragile security balance in South Lebanon.

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For the first time, Chin

China Eyes Leadership Role in UNIFIL, South Lebanon

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