Beirut: The UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon has issued a stark warning about the 'very dangerous escalation' in the region, which has resulted in the deaths of five peacekeepers in recent weeks. The mission is urgently calling for a permanent ceasefire to stabilize the fragile truce currently in place.
According to Anadolu Agency, ahead of a second round of Israel-Lebanon talks scheduled in the US, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) emphasized its recognition of the Blue Line-the UN-established boundary between Israel and Lebanon-as the sole basis for its operations. UNIFIL spokesperson Tilak Pokharel, in an interview, expressed the mission's desire for a permanent resolution to the conflict, describing the current 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah as a temporary but positive sign.
Pokharel highlighted UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which concluded the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, advocating for a total cessation of hostilities, adherence to the Blue Line, and the deployment of Lebanese forces alongside UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. He urged all parties to engage in dialogue to resolve the conflict.
Since March 2, ongoing hostilities by Israel in Lebanon have led to significant casualties, with approximately 2,300 fatalities, over 7,500 injuries, and more than one million displaced, as reported by Lebanese authorities.
UNIFIL has firmly rejected any alternative boundaries proposed by Israeli officials, including a self-declared buffer zone known as the 'yellow line.' This unofficial boundary reportedly runs parallel to the Blue Line, extending into Lebanese territory. Pokharel reiterated that UNIFIL recognizes only the Blue Line and does not endorse any other demarcations.
The increased violence since March 2 has placed UNIFIL peacekeepers in perilous conditions. Five peacekeepers-three Indonesian and two French-have been killed, with several others injured. Investigations into these incidents are ongoing, with preliminary findings indicating involvement of both Israeli tank fire and non-state actors.
UNIFIL's operations face severe restrictions due to ongoing military activities, violating Resolution 1701. Pokharel reported that peacekeepers encounter daily risks, including gunfire and explosive devices, which have disrupted patrols and limited the mission's capacity to fulfill its mandate.
The situation is further complicated by illegal detentions and checkpoints by Israeli forces, violating international law and Resolution 1701. However, despite these challenges, UNIFIL continues to monitor violations and facilitate humanitarian efforts, assisting civilians affected by the conflict.
Pokharel emphasized UNIFIL's commitment to supporting the local population amid hostilities, facilitating humanitarian access, and aiding those returning to the south following the ceasefire.