Doha: The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) Affirmed that the UN's decision to reduce its peacekeeping forces by a quarter in 11 operations worldwide in the coming months due to budget shortfalls will impact the force's activities in southern Lebanon. In her remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), UNIFIL Spokesperson Kandice Ardiel said: "We are still studying what the peacekeeping budget shortfalls will mean for UNIFIL, but we know we will have to make some difficult decisions. We are finalizing our plans but we know this will directly impact our activities and require adjustments."

According to Qatar News Agency, Ardiel emphasized the commitment to mitigating the effects of the budget cuts. She mentioned that UNIFIL will collaborate closely with Lebanese authorities and troop-contributing countries to implement any necessary changes with minimal disruption. Despite the financial constraints, UNIFIL aims to continue fulfilling its core tasks as outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

The United Nations is preparing to reduce the number of peacekeeping forces worldwide by 25 percent over the coming months, affecting between 13,000 and 14,000 soldiers and police. This decision comes as a result of funding shortfalls following the US halving its contribution. The reduction will impact missions in several countries, including the Congo, Lebanon, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic.