The Federal Armed Forces will continue to participate in the peace-keeping mission United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon (UNIFIL). The Federal Cabinet has decided to extend the mandate until the end of June 2026. The German Bundestag still needs to approve the resolution. The most important questions and answers about the extension of the mandate at a glance.

What is the aim of the operation in Lebanon?

Germany continues to support lasting peace and stability in the Near East. The peace-keeping mission UNIFIL remains an important instrument for ensuring security and stability in the fragile security environment in Lebanon.

It provides Lebanon with support in ensuring its own security. In addition, the UNIFIL mission is intended to keep the lines of communication between Israel and Lebanon open in order to reduce tensions in the region.

Why is the deployment to be extended?

The terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel on 7 October 2023 had an immense impact on the already desolate security situation in the region. After months of shelling by Hezbollah, Israeli forces entered Lebanon in October 2024 to push Hezbollah back. A ceasefire has been in place in Lebanon since November 2024. Since then, progress has been made towards peace on the demarcation line between Israel and Lebanon – the area of deployment of the UNIFIL forces.

UNIFIL continues to play a central role in enabling Lebanon to secure state sovereignty and gain control over the entire territory of Lebanon. In addition, UNIFIL is heading a coordination body to reduce tensions between Israel and Lebanon. 

What is Germany’s specific contribution?

The core task for the German troops in the mission continues to be enabling the Lebanese navy to independently protect its waters off the Lebanese coast. This includes the nautical and marine technology training of the Lebanese navy. The Lebanese navy is also being supported in securing its maritime borders in order to prevent the illegal import of arms equipment into Lebanon. The German Navy is currently participating in UNIFIL with the frigate Brandenburg.

In addition, personnel for the UNIFIL headquarters in Naquora and the commander for the UNIFIL flotilla will also be provided. A total of up to 300 German soldiers can be deployed.

How is the Federal Government supporting Lebanon beyond this?

In Lebanon, the Federal Government is pursuing a connected approach that unites foreign, security and development policy instruments. This also includes guaranteeing the human rights of the population. In the course of the military escalation in autumn 2024, the Federal Government intensified Germany’s humanitarian engagement in Lebanon. 

The development policy instruments have improved access to drinking water, food and emergency accommodation for refugees, among other things. The Federal Government also works in many ways to promote economic development and peaceful coexistence in Lebanon. This includes supporting women, the economy and education, among other measures. 

What is the legal basis for the deployment of troops?

The participation of German forces is based on Resolution 1701 (2006) and the follow-up resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. In participating in UNIFIL, the German forces are acting according to the rules of a system of mutual collective security according to Article 24 paragraph 2 of the Basic Law. 

In a letter to the United Nations on 6 September 2006 citing Resolution 1701 (2006), the Lebanese government requested, among other things, support in securing its maritime borders.