Tenenti Dismisses US-Israel Deal to End UNIFIL Mission as Rumors

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has dismissed claims of a purported agreement between the United States and Israel to terminate its peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon. UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti characterized such reports as unfounded rumors, reaffirming the mission’s ongoing commitment to its mandate under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701.

Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006, mandates the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, and the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) alongside UNIFIL to ensure peace and security in the region. Tenenti emphasized that UNIFIL operates under the authority of this resolution, which grants the mission the right to conduct patrols independently or in coordination with the LAF. He noted that while UNIFIL maintains close coordination with the Lebanese military, its freedom of movement is essential for fulfilling its duties.

Recent incidents have highlighted challenges to UNIFIL’s operations. In the town of Srifa, local residents intercepted a UNIFIL patrol, expressing objections to the peacekeepers’ presence without a Lebanese army escort. Such confrontations underscore the complexities UNIFIL faces in executing its mandate amidst local sensitivities and the broader geopolitical context.

Despite these challenges, UNIFIL continues to play a vital role in maintaining stability along the Blue Line, the demarcation line between Lebanon and Israel. The mission’s presence is considered crucial, especially in light of ongoing tensions and periodic violations of the ceasefire agreement. UNIFIL’s efforts are supported by the Lebanese government, which has reiterated the importance of the mission’s work in preserving peace and facilitating the reconstruction of war-affected areas in southern Lebanon.

As the expiration date of UNIFIL’s mandate approaches at the end of August, discussions within the United Nations Security Council regarding its renewal are anticipated. The outcome of these deliberations will be pivotal in determining the future of the peacekeeping mission and its continued role in fostering stability in the region.