United Nations Security Council member states have urged both sides to prevent escalation amid rising tensions along the Blue Line, according to reports from the UN peacekeeping force UNIFIL in Lebanon. The member states reiterated the obligation to protect civilians and show respect for UNIFIL.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that the peacekeeping force, whose mandate is set to expire on December 31, will continue to be needed in Lebanon beyond that date. In a letter to the Security Council members, Guterres presented three potential scenarios involving between 2,000 and 5,500 UN personnel to monitor a ceasefire and support the Lebanese army.
Escalation of Violence in the South
UNIFIL spokesperson Tilak Pokharel stated on Tuesday that they observed an increase in violence over the past weekend. “We have seen more firing from both sides. For example, yesterday was the highest number of firing from the Israeli side, the IDF, and the day before yesterday was almost the same level. Non-state armed groups continue to fire from Lebanon towards Israeli targets,” Pokharel said.
Widespread Destruction Along the Blue Line
Pokharel noted that the IDF has advanced deeper into Lebanon, causing widespread destruction to homes and other civilian infrastructure in the south. “This has displaced people from their homes and prevented them from returning. Most of the areas where we are currently located are under IDF control.” UNIFIL is attempting to assist those who choose to remain by facilitating access for humanitarian organizations and escorting aid missions. “In a few cases, we have also provided small-scale donations to meet the immediate needs not only within UNIFIL operational areas but also in areas where people have been forcibly displaced or have had to flee and are mostly living outside collective shelters,” Pokharel added.
Roadblocks and Mines Create Extraordinary Conditions for Peacekeepers
Pokharel explained that a large majority of buildings and other infrastructure in areas close to the Blue Line, the demarcation line, have been destroyed. “Many bridges along the Litani River have been targeted, and peacekeepers are encountering numerous roadblocks and landmines placed on the roads. This is an extraordinary situation in which we are operating,” he stated. He mentioned that peacekeepers, far from their homes, families, and friends, have had to remain in shelters for days or even weeks during difficult times in southern Lebanon. “Following the latest escalation, we had a situation where they could not resupply their positions, some went for days without food or fresh food, without water. We have experienced all of this.” He also recalled that six UNIFIL personnel have “lost their lives while performing their duties in South Lebanon for peace and stability” since the beginning of the hostilities on March 2.
