The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is urging a prompt withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, pointing to what it describes as violations of the ceasefire agreement established on 27 November with the Iran-backed Lebanese armed group Hezbollah.
Israel and Hezbollah have accepted a 60-day ceasefire, brokered by the United States, which stipulates a phased military withdrawal by Israel following more than a year of conflict, in alignment with the 2006 UN Security Council resolution that concluded their last significant war.
According to the agreement, Hezbollah fighters are required to vacate their positions in southern Lebanon and relocate north of the Litani River, which flows approximately 30 kilometers north of the Israeli border, while Israel must fully withdraw from the southern region.
In its statement, UNIFIL expressed concern over ongoing destruction in southern Lebanon caused by Israeli forces, including damage to residential areas, farmland, and infrastructure, labeling these actions as violations of UN Resolution 1701.
The Israeli military mentioned that it is reviewing UNIFIL’s criticisms but opted to withhold additional comments for the time being.
As per the terms of the ceasefire with Hezbollah, Israeli forces are permitted up to 60 days for a full withdrawal from southern Lebanon, and neither party is allowed to initiate offensive actions.
Lebanon’s army reported that it is in contact with UNIFIL and the committee overseeing the agreement, addressing what it describes as an expanded incursion by Israeli forces into certain areas of southern Lebanon.
UNIFIL has reaffirmed its readiness to oversee the space south of the Litani River to ensure it remains devoid of armed personnel and weapons, with the exception of those belonging to Lebanon’s government and UNIFIL.
This ceasefire signifies the conclusion of the most severe conflict between Israel and Hezbollah since their six-week war in 2006. Nevertheless, Israel has continued its military operations against Palestinian militants in Gaza.
