UN Accuses Israel of Ceasefire Violation as Hezbollah’s Patience Wears Thin

The U.N. peacekeeping force in Lebanon has accused Israel of a significant breach of the 2006 Security Council resolution, which is the foundation of the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah that went into effect in November.

This accusation from the U.N. Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) comes as Hezbollah leader Sheikh Naim Qassem warned that the group’s tolerance for Israeli violations could expire before the 60-day ceasefire period ends.

The ceasefire, which began on November 27, has been marked by mutual claims of violations from both parties involved. The peacekeeping force reported that Israeli military bulldozers were seen destroying a blue barrel that marks the withdrawal line between Lebanon and Israel in Labbouneh, as well as an observation tower belonging to the Lebanese Armed Forces near a UNIFIL position.

UNIFIL condemned the destruction of these identifiable properties, calling it a blatant violation of Resolution 1701 and international law. The peacekeeping force, which is part of the committee overseeing the ceasefire’s implementation, urged all parties to avoid actions that could endanger the cessation of hostilities, including damaging civilian property and infrastructure.

The terms of the ceasefire require the Lebanese Army to deploy alongside UNIFIL forces in southern Lebanon, while the Israeli army withdraws over a 60-day period. Hezbollah is also expected to pull its forces north of the Litani River, about 30 kilometers from the border, and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in the south.

In late December, UNIFIL expressed concern over the ongoing damage caused by Israeli military activities in southern Lebanon. In its recent operations, the Israeli military justified airstrikes as part of efforts to eliminate potential threats in line with the ceasefire arrangements.

Qassem stated that Hezbollah has chosen to remain patient for now but warned that this patience is not unlimited. He clarified that the group is giving Israel an opportunity to prevent further violations and implement the agreement, but emphasized that Hezbollah’s leadership will decide when to take action, respond, or shift tactics.