Beirut: The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) announced that it observed Israeli soldiers crossing into border areas of southern Lebanon, labeling the act a 'violation' of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The peacekeepers reported the Israeli army's movement near Markaba, Al Adeisse, Kfar Kela, and Ramyah before the soldiers returned to the south of the Blue Line.
According to Anadolu Agency, UNIFIL noted that since the conflict in 2024, the Israeli army has established five positions and two buffer zones inside Lebanese territory, actions that breach Resolution 1701. The peacekeeping mission has also documented several Israeli airstrikes, numerous incidents of gunfire across the Blue Line, and 84 airspace violations over the past two days. Additionally, Hezbollah has fired dozens of rockets and shells into Israel.
UNIFIL emphasized that each incident represents a serious breach of Resolution 1701. The organization is actively engaging with both the Lebanese and Israeli sides, utilizing coordination mechanisms to promote de-escalation. Resolution 1701, adopted in August 2006, mandates a halt to hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah and the establishment of a weapons-free zone between the UN-demarcated Blue Line and the Litani River, allowing only Lebanese army forces and UNIFIL.
Despite the challenging conditions, UNIFIL remains dedicated to fulfilling its mandate under Resolution 1701 and will continue to report developments to the UN Security Council. This statement came after the Israeli military announced a ground incursion into southern Lebanon to create a 'security zone' and position forces at 'strategic points,' justifying the move as necessary to protect Israeli settlements from potential attacks originating from Lebanon.
At least 52 people have died, and over 150 others have been injured in Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon since Monday. Regional tension has heightened following a large-scale attack by the US and Israel on Iran on Saturday, which resulted in nearly 800 fatalities, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Tehran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf countries housing US assets.