UNIFIL calls for timely Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon

The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) called for the timely withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, citing violations of a cease-fire agreement with Hezbollah, brokered by the U.S.

Why it matters

The call emphasizes ongoing instability in the region and concerns over the implementation of the cease-fire agreement, which is critical to maintaining peace following a year of conflict.

Details

• The Nov. 27 cease-fire agreement mandated a phased Israeli withdrawal and Hezbollah’s retreat north of the Litani River, in line with U.N. Resolution 1701.
• UNIFIL expressed concern over the continued Israeli destruction of infrastructure in southern Lebanon, deeming it a violation of the U.N. resolution.
• Israel is reviewing UNIFIL’s criticism, and Lebanon’s army is working with UNIFIL to address further Israeli incursions.

UNIFIL emphasized the need for the Lebanese Armed Forces to replace Hezbollah in southern Lebanon to ensure security.

While the cease-fire aims to end tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza reflect broader regional instability.