UNIFIL Chief Describes Lebanon-Israel Border Situation as ‘Perilous’

The border between Lebanon and Israel is currently experiencing a tense and hazardous situation, as reported by Aroldo Lazaro, the leader of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). He noted that the tensions have been high since October 8, a day following the start of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. This escalated situation primarily involves cross-border exchanges of fire between Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group supporting Hamas, and the Israeli army.

Lazaro, speaking before a meeting in Beirut with French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, highlighted UNIFIL’s ongoing efforts to maintain coordination and liaison to prevent misunderstandings that could lead to further escalation. According to an AFP report, over 130 people have died on the Lebanese side of the border, with the majority being Hezbollah fighters, but also including a Lebanese soldier and 17 civilians, three of whom were journalists. On the Israeli side, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of four civilians and seven soldiers.

Lazaro underscored the link between the events in Gaza, controlled by Hamas, and the growing tensions in southern Lebanon. He pointed out that Hezbollah is employing longer-range weapons, while Israeli aircraft continue to breach Lebanese airspace. However, he observed a slight decrease in the exchanges of fire over the past three days.

UNIFIL itself has been struck by fire in recent weeks, though no peacekeepers have been killed. Established in 1978 to oversee the withdrawal of Israeli forces following their invasion of Lebanon, UNIFIL’s role was expanded after the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel. Colonna’s visit to Beirut, following her meetings in Israel and the occupied West Bank, is part of ongoing efforts to reduce tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border.