UN Security Council Extends UNAMA Mission in Afghanistan for Three Months

The UN Security Council has extended the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) for three months until 27 Jowza 1405, approving a resolution on Monday.

This marks a departure from previous annual renewals. The shorter extension followed a US call to review assistance and engagement with the Taliban administration. While most Council members supported a one-year extension, the US agreed to a three-month technical rollover.

China, which presented the draft resolution, stated that the brief extension provides time for discussions and decisions on potential adjustments to UNAMA's mandate.

Richard Lennie, the UK's representative on Afghan affairs, welcomed the extension. "UNAMA's role in protecting rights, supporting the transition of aid, and advancing a peaceful future is vital. Britain remains steadfast in supporting UNAMA's activities in Afghanistan," Lennie said.

UNAMA was established in 2002 to coordinate international aid and support political and humanitarian processes in Afghanistan. Its mandate has been renewed yearly since then.

Afghanistan continues to face a severe humanitarian crisis, with UN officials citing assessments that 17.5 million people will need assistance in 2026. Aid organizations have requested $1.71 billion for this year, but only about 10 percent has been funded so far.