UNIFIL Strengthens Operations as South Lebanon Communities Begin Rebuilding
Peacekeepers step up support as families – Following a notable decline in armed confrontations across southern Lebanon since the middle of June, United Nations peacekeeping forces have shifted their focus back toward fundamental duties. These personnel are now concentrating on safeguarding humanitarian deliveries and rebuilding vital infrastructure while local families gradually make their way back to residential areas.
Kandice Ardiel, who serves as the spokesperson for the UN Interim Force in Lebanon, expressed optimism about the current situation. In a statement issued on Thursday, she noted that the favorable shift in security conditions enables the mission to concentrate on its primary objectives.
“The welcome reduction in violence allows our peacekeepers to do more of what we are here to do.”
Core Mandate and Historical Context
The peacekeeping mission operates under a mandate established by Security Council Resolution 1701, which was adopted in 2006 to formalize the cessation of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces. This comprehensive agreement requires UNIFIL to monitor cease-fire compliance, assist Lebanese military units in confronting Hezbollah fighters, guarantee that humanitarian aid reaches affected populations, and secure the boundary separating Lebanon from Israel along the Blue Line demarcation.
Originally designed to establish enduring peace between the two parties and facilitate Hezbollah’s disarmament, the resolution has faced renewed scrutiny. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has publicly stated that both Israel and Hezbollah have breached the agreement’s provisions since October 8, 2023, when renewed tensions erupted.
Despite these challenges, diplomatic channels remain open. Representatives from Israel and the Lebanese government in Beirut have been conducting peace negotiations since June. While UNIFIL has documented dozens of projectiles launched over recent days, this figure indicates a meaningful decline compared to earlier periods of intense conflict.
Humanitarian Support and Infrastructure Recovery
As residents return to their neighborhoods, many are discovering that their homes and villages have suffered extensive damage. UNIFIL personnel have been actively coordinating humanitarian efforts, creating secure corridors for aid vehicles and assisting in the restoration of essential public services including medical facilities and water supply systems.
“As people have begun to return to their villages, a lot of work remains to be done.”
Medical infrastructure has received particular attention. Over recent weeks, the peacekeeping force has delivered critical medical equipment and emergency supplies to Tibnin Governmental Hospital, significantly bolstering healthcare capabilities in the region.
Coordination efforts extend beyond medical support. UNIFIL peacekeepers have enabled the movement of civilian laborers, technical specialists, humanitarian convoys, and mobile medical units. These groups are conducting repairs and providing services connected to water distribution networks, electrical grids, telecommunications systems, and healthcare delivery mechanisms.
Through sustained operations, UNIFIL has contributed to the repair and maintenance of water infrastructure across numerous towns and villages throughout southern Lebanon during the past several weeks.
Addressing Explosive Hazards
Another crucial aspect of civilian protection involves the removal of unexploded ordnances scattered across southern Lebanon. These remnants pose ongoing threats to local populations attempting to resume normal activities.
Since the latest escalation began in March—when the United States and Israel initiated aerial bombardments against Iran, prompting Hezbollah to enter the conflict in support of Tehran—UNIFIL peacekeepers have successfully neutralized dozens of unexploded ordnances, improvised explosive devices, and crashed drones.
On Wednesday, Lebanese Armed Forces personnel successfully disposed of several ordnances that had been identified by UNIFIL peacekeepers, according to UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.
“Explosive hazards remain one of the most serious challenges facing returning communities.”
UNIFIL continues to call upon all involved parties to fully observe Resolution 1701. The mission emphasizes that peacekeepers are working collaboratively with local authorities and residents to support recovery efforts, minimize risks, and promote long-term stability throughout southern Lebanon.
