A UN resolution is a formal expression of the opinion or will of a UN body, typically passed by consensus or by a majority vote. It sets out a specific action that the UN body would like to see taken or is asking the Secretary-General to explore, or both. Resolutions follow a standard and relatively strict format, often involving multiple drafts. They are generally the result of a long process in which countries negotiate and collaborate with each other.
The five permanent members of the UN Security Council – the so-called P5 – have veto power over any resolution. The veto was established in the aftermath of World War II, as key nations sought to ensure they had a decisive role in the new international order. Critics argue that the veto fuels deadlock and protects the geopolitical interests of the P5 at the expense of global peace and security.
Resolutions are often non-binding on member states, except when they refer to internal matters of the UN itself or are voted upon by the General Assembly. In those cases, a non-binding presidential statement may be produced instead of a resolution.
This resolution extended the mandate of UNIFIL until 31 December 2026. It also called on the Secretary-General to examine options for transitioning the mission into a gang suppression force, and asked him to report on those options by 1 June 2026. It further authorised several functions that the UNIFIL is authorised to carry out.