The Israeli Ambassador to the U.N. has accused the United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon (UNIFIL) of not enforcing its mission to prevent Hezbollah from establishing military outposts near the Israeli border. Israel's incursion into southern Lebanon revealed a military outpost filled with explosives and mines just 300 yards north of the border, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Hezbollah has been using UNIFIL outposts as hiding places and ambush sites, raising concerns about the safety of UN personnel. Despite Israel's request for UNIFIL forces to move further north to avoid being in the line of fire, the request has not been accepted.
Resolution 1701, passed in 2006, aimed to help the Lebanese Armed Forces take control of the region, replacing Hezbollah. However, recent events have shown that Hezbollah's military presence near the border poses a significant threat.
Hezbollah's collaboration with Hamas in attacks on Israel has further highlighted the failure of UNIFIL to prevent Hezbollah's aggressive actions. The IDF reported multiple rocket attacks launched from Hezbollah compounds near UNIFIL posts, resulting in casualties among Israeli soldiers.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for the withdrawal of UNIFIL troops from southern Lebanon, citing their use as 'human shields' by Hezbollah. The U.N. Secretary-General has emphasized the need to protect peacekeepers and U.N. premises, urging all parties to refrain from actions that endanger peacekeepers.
The situation in Lebanon continues to escalate, with the United Nations Security Council set to discuss the matter further. The discovery of Hezbollah tunnels near UNIFIL observation posts underscores the urgency of addressing the security challenges in the region.
