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Security Situation in Southern Lebanon Remains ‘Fragile,’ UN Peacekeeping Mission Reports

Beirut: The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) stated on Thursday that the security situation in southern Lebanon remains 'fragile' despite a decline in 'violence' since late June.

According to Anadolu Agency, the recent reduction in violence has allowed peacekeepers to gradually increase operational activities in the region. UNIFIL highlighted in a statement that families have begun returning to their villages, prompting peacekeepers to expand their presence to help consolidate the relative stability achieved in recent weeks.

The mission further explained that peacekeepers are assisting in the repair of damaged roads and other infrastructure. These efforts are contributing to recovery initiatives and improving access for UNIFIL's operational activities in the region.

UNIFIL emphasized that although the level of violence has decreased since late June, the situation remains precarious. The mission stressed that dialogue, coordination, and a sustained operational presence are essential to reducing tensions and restoring stability in the area.

The context of the situation includes a US-sponsored framework agreement signed by Lebanon and Israel on June 26, which outlines a phased Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, beginning with two unspecified pilot zones.

Despite the agreement, reports from Lebanese media indicate ongoing Israeli violations. These include home demolitions in the southern town of Khiam and the detonation of explosives in the town of Taybeh.

According to official figures, since March 2, Israeli attacks in Lebanon have resulted in over 4,300 deaths and more than 12,000 injuries. Israeli forces continue to occupy areas in southern Lebanon, with some territories held for decades and others seized during the 2023-2024 conflict. The latest offensive saw Israeli troops advance more than 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) into Lebanese territory.