What is Türkiye’s role in UNIFIL’s peacekeeping mission in Lebanon?

As Israel shifts its military campaign from Gaza to Lebanon, Türkiye remains a key player in efforts to stabilize the region. Despite Türkiye’s and the international community’s calls for peace, Israel’s airstrikes continue to claim the lives of civilians.

Israel asserts that its main objective is to target Hezbollah’s command structure, but concerns about the impact on civilians remain. Global responses typically include statements such as “Civilians must not be harmed” and “These attacks are unacceptable,” yet tangible actions have been limited. As a result, Israel has intensified its campaign, including recent strikes on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

UNIFIL: Peacekeeping force under fire

Israel’s attack on UNIFIL is not just an assault on the United Nations, but a direct challenge to U.S. interests, as well. UNIFIL was established under a UN Security Council resolution that the U.S. notably did not veto. Initially deployed in 1978, UNIFIL’s mission was to monitor Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon, support peace and security, and assist the Lebanese government in restoring its authority in occupied areas.

Following the 2006 Israel-Lebanon war, the U.N. Security Council expanded UNIFIL’s mandate on Aug. 11, 2006, strengthening its capacity to maintain stability in the region. Today, UNIFIL operates on both land and sea, patrolling the area between the Litani River and the Israeli-Lebanese border (the Blue Line) and protecting Lebanese coastal waters.

UNIFIL’s core responsibilities include securing borders, preventing unauthorized armed groups from operating in the area, ensuring humanitarian aid reaches civilians and stopping the illegal flow of weapons into the region. As of September 2024, 48 countries, including Türkiye, were supporting UNIFIL, contributing over 10,000 military personnel to the mission.

Türkiye’s strong role in supporting UNIFIL

Türkiye has played an active role in UNIFIL since 2006, providing essential support for both land and naval operations. The Turkish Navy, with its TCG Beykoz (F-503) corvette, conducts regular patrols along the Lebanese coast to prevent arms smuggling and maintain security. The ship, with its 90-member crew, plays a key role in enforcing international maritime law in the region.

In addition to its naval presence, Türkiye contributes to UNIFIL’s land operations. Turkish military personnel stationed at UNIFIL headquarters handle communication, coordinate operations, and assist with reporting. Alongside its military role, Türkiye actively supports UNIFIL’s humanitarian efforts, ensuring that aid reaches civilians in conflict-affected areas.

Türkiye’s continued involvement in UNIFIL reflects its commitment to peace and stability in the region. By contributing to both military operations and humanitarian missions, Türkiye demonstrates its position as a responsible actor in the region’s security efforts.

Parliament set to discuss Türkiye’s continued contribution

The Turkish Parliament is set to review the extension of Türkiye’s participation in UNIFIL this month. Although no additional forces are expected to be deployed, Türkiye’s current military presence will remain. Amid ongoing attacks on UNIFIL, Türkiye’s decision to maintain its commitment underscores its dedication to peace and fulfilling its international responsibilities.

Global condemnations fail to stop Israel’s aggression

The international community, particularly Western nations, continues to respond to Israel’s actions with standard condemnations, labeling the attacks “unacceptable.” Yet, these statements have little impact, as Israel recognizes the lack of real consequences.

Its recent attack on UNIFIL, a U.N. peacekeeping force, highlights this growing sense of impunity. Without a united and firm response to Israel’s escalating actions, the cycle of violence is likely to persist, leading to further loss of innocent lives.

It is crucial for the international community, including nations like Türkiye, to take a stronger stance in promoting peace and stability. Without more decisive measures to hold Israel accountable, the prospects for lasting peace in the region remain bleak.