France, Aug. 19 -- France and its European partners are resisting Washington's push to end the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon - UNIFIL - arguing its presence remains essential for stability along Israel's northern border.

The United Nations Security Council began to debate Monday a resolution drafted by France to extend the UN peacekeeping force in south Lebanon for a year with the ultimate aim to withdraw it.

The future of UNIFIL has become the latest flashpoint between Washington and its European allies.

While the Trump administration has been pressing to draw down and shut the operation within months, France and its European partners are rallying behind it, arguing its continued presence is vital for stability in the region.

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