What is UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon that is under Israeli attack?

In recent weeks, Israel has expanded its war in Lebanon, hitting densely populated civilian neighbourhoods with powerful bombs. Now, Tel Aviv has even started engaging UN peacekeepers stationed in Lebanon.

On Thursday, the United National Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that the Israeli military attacked its headquarters in Naqoura, injuring two peacekeepers.

Israeli forces again attacked UNIFIL headquarters on Friday, injuring several Sri Lankan peacekeepers, according to Lebanon’s official media report.

The report says an Israeli Merkava tank targeted one of UNIFIL’s observation towers, damaging the main entrance of the UNIFIL command centre in Naqoura.

These incidents highlight the challenges the multinational UNIFIL mission faces as it strives to fulfil its mandate amidst Israel’s increasing aggression.

Here’s a quick look into what UNIFIL is and its purpose.

What is UNIFIL’s mission?

Established in March 1978 following Israel’s invasion of Lebanon, UNIFIL was created by the UN Security Council to ensure the withdrawal of Israeli troops, restore peace, and assist the Lebanese government in reestablishing its authority in the region.

Over the years, the mandate has evolved, particularly after the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, leading to the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701.

This resolution expanded UNIFIL's responsibilities to include monitoring ceasefires, supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), and facilitating humanitarian access to civilians.

UNIFIL currently comprises over 10,500 personnel from 50 countries, operating along a 75-mile stretch known as the Blue Line, which demarcates the border.

The top contributing countries to the force include Indonesia, India, Ghana, Nepal, Italy, Malaysia, Spain, France, China, and Ireland.

The peacekeepers are tasked with preventing ceasefire violations and reporting any breaches to the UN Security Council.

Despite being armed, UNIFIL personnel are limited in their use of weapons and authorised to engage only when their safety or the safety of civilians is directly threatened.

Recent Israeli escalation

The security landscape in southern Lebanon has become increasingly precarious after Israel began its invasion.

Last week, during a military operation, the Israeli military established new positions near UNIFIL bases.

UN officials confirmed that satellite imagery corroborates these developments, heightening risks for peacekeepers in the area.

The situation escalated further on Thursday when Israeli tank fire hit an observation tower at UNIFIL's headquarters, injuring two Indonesian peacekeepers who are currently receiving medical treatment.

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi condemned the attack, saying, "Attacking UN personnel and property is a major violation of international humanitarian law."

She also emphasised the necessity for accountability and respect for the neutrality of peacekeeping forces, as mandated by international law.

UNIFIL's response

In light of these recent incidents, UNIFIL has expressed deep concern over the activities of the Israeli military close to its positions.

On October 6, the peacekeeping force noted a significant increase in Israeli fire, including air strikes and ground incursions.

A UN spokesperson labelled the situation “extremely dangerous” and reiterated that compromising the safety of UN peacekeepers carrying out their duties is unacceptable.

UNIFIL plays a crucial role in preventing misunderstandings and unintended escalations between the Israeli and Lebanese sides.

The peacekeepers conduct daily patrols alongside the Lebanese Armed Forces.

Furthermore, UNIFIL’s Maritime Task Force assists in monitoring Lebanon's territorial waters to prevent the entry of unauthorised arms and related materials, a mission crucial to regional stability.

As UNIFIL navigates these challenges, the international community's support and adherence to international law will be paramount.

The recent attacks on peacekeepers have drawn condemnation from multiple nations, underlining the importance of UNIFIL's role in maintaining peace in a region marked by longstanding tensions.