Lebanon Seeks Renewal of UNIFIL Amid Tensions; Israel Calls for Its End
Lebanon urges renewal of UNIFIL amid rising tensions and attacks on peacekeepers, while Israel and analysts argue that its mandate should be revoked citing failures. High-level discussions feature France’s ongoing support for the mission alongside Lebanon’s commitment to stability and international law.
In the unfolding situation regarding the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Abdallah Salim Salam has articulated a firm stance in favor of the mission’s continued presence. He stated, “Lebanon is eager to renew the UNIFIL mandate,” emphasizing the need for stability and security in southern Lebanon over latest tensions, including recent attacks on UNIFIL forces. These incidents raise serious concerns regarding safety and political stability.
In addition, Lebanon’s Foreign Ministry has condemned a specific attack on a UNIFIL soldier, asserting the importance of protection for peacekeeping forces and accountability under both Lebanese and international law. This incident occurred amidst rising tensions, particularly following a clash involving a UNIFIL patrol that entered an area without the Lebanese army’s escort, exacerbating local frustrations towards international forces.
Recent discussions included high-level meetings, such as one on June 11, with French Presidential Envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian, who met with Lebanese officials. The topics broached included political developments, Israeli aggression, and the reinforcement of UNIFIL forces. Le Drian also mentioned France’s intent to organize a conference directed at reconstructing southern Lebanon while supporting the UNIFIL mission’s extension.
Contrasting with Lebanon’s position, Israeli perspectives are markedly different. Analysts Zoe Levornik and Sarit Zehavi from the Alma Center argue that since the Second Lebanon War, UNIFIL has failed to successfully monitor or curb Hezbollah activities. They suggest that the mission’s mandate should be rescinded, citing increasing military preparedness among Hezbollah operatives and a perceived lack of intervention by UNIFIL. The authors noted: “UNIFIL has clearly failed in its assigned mission, and therefore its mandate should be revoked immediately.”
Further criticisms highlight the ineffectiveness of UNIFIL during previous conflicts, suggesting it has inhibited Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) actions while allowing Hezbollah to fortify its position. Allegations state that UNIFIL has been used as a buffer for Hezbollah’s operations, raising questions about its operational effectiveness and justify the call for its disbandment.
Despite ongoing dialogue regarding potential improvements and reinforcements to their mandate, skepticism remains regarding the UNIFIL’s ability to adapt and respond effectively. Many feel that, in light of historical shortcomings, merely extending its mandate would not lead to meaningful changes. As stated by a commentary, “there is no reason to believe that the renewal of the mandate… will bring about the change needed to make UNIFIL’s presence… effective in maintaining security.”
The complex political dynamics in the region, marked by opposition viewpoints and escalating tensions, suggest that the future of UNIFIL in Lebanon is still very much in question. Amidst international efforts at dialogue and reinforcement, there is a profound need for a reassessment of the peacekeeping mission’s strategies and efficacy.
In summary, the fate of UNIFIL remains uncertain as Lebanon advocates for its renewal amidst rising tensions, while Israel argues for its dissolution due to perceived failures in the mission. Lebanese leaders stress the need for UNIFIL to ensure security and fulfill its mandate, while Israeli critique underlines a belief in its obsolescence and ineffectiveness against Hezbollah. Ultimately, the path forward for UNIFIL in Lebanon will require reflection on its operational strategy in a complicated geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.agcnews.eu
