The United Nations Security Council is scheduled to hold closed consultations on Lebanon on Wednesday, following a joint request by France, the penholder on the file, and the United States. The meeting comes in the wake of the announcement on November 26 of a cessation of hostilities between Lebanon and Israel, which took effect the following day.

Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix is expected to brief the Council.

During the session, members are likely to express support for the cessation of hostilities, highlighting it as a crucial step toward de-escalating tensions and promoting stability in the region. They are also expected to call for strict adherence to the terms of the agreement and reaffirm the significance of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 as a foundational framework for peace and stability along the Blue Line.

Key points of discussion will include Lacroix’s assessment of whether the cessation of hostilities is likely to hold in the long term. Recent violations of the ceasefire are expected to be a particular concern, with members urging restraint from all sides. Additionally, the safety and security of UN peacekeepers operating in the region are anticipated to be a focal point, as some members reiterate calls for all parties to respect international law.

The Council may also address the capacity of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) to implement the terms of the cessation agreement. Members are expected to emphasize the importance of international support for the LAF to strengthen its role in maintaining security, particularly in southern Lebanon.

The Security Council is closely monitoring the situation and may consider further meetings or issuing a formal statement, depending on developments. The outcome of this session will be critical in determining the trajectory of international efforts to sustain peace between Lebanon and Israel.