UN Peacekeeping Force in Lebanon Under Scrutiny as Tensions Rise
<img src="" alt="Image of UNIFIL soldiers”>
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), deployed in south Lebanon since 1978 to monitor the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, has found itself at the center of a growing controversy. The mission’s mandate, initially aimed at ensuring peace after the Israeli invasion, is now being questioned amidst escalating tensions and allegations of abuses.
In recent statements, UNIFIL peacekeepers have alleged that Israel has repeatedly breached international law by deliberately destroying their property. The incidents, according to reports, have included the destruction of surveillance cameras and other monitoring equipment, creating further obstacles to the force’s efforts to maintain the fragile peace in the region.
“The deliberate destruction of UN property raises serious concerns,” UN officials stated. “It not only hinders our ability to fulfill our mandate but also undermines the principles of international law.”
Indonesia repeatedly sends troops on UN missions, playing a vital role in promoting peace globally. Currently, Indonesian peacekeepers are among the 9,500 participants predominantly comprised of troops from countries like Ghana, Malaysia, Bangladesh and Nepal serving in the UNIFIL mission.
The Indonesian contingent deployed in south Lebanon faces unique challenges, navigating an indelicate situation where the line between licit and illicit activities is blurred. These troops are quoted as saying, “It’s not easy,” highlighting the ongoing challenges of maintaining neutrality in a complex conflict zone.
Despite these difficulties, Indonesian peacekeepers remain dedicated to upholding their responsibilities. Their dedication is commendable, considering the demanding conditions and the need to maintain composure amidst a constantly evolving situation.
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Initially established to create a buffer zone between Israel and Hezbollah, UNIFIL’s relatively peaceful coexistence with Hezbollah is a testament to their de-escalation efforts. The force works diligently to build trust with both parties, mediating disputes and promoting dialogue.
However, the ongoing existence of Hezbollah, designated as a terrorist organization by several countries including the United States and the European Union, poses a complex dilemma for UNIFIL.
The presence of this powerful group, deeply intertwined in Lebanese society, necessarily affects the scope of UNIFIL’s operations. Reaching a peace deal that addresses the concerns of all parties involved remains a complicated and ongoing challenge.
The United Nations Security Council resolution, which governs UNIFIL, mandates the force to help ensure that the area “is not used for hostile activities.”
Despite these concrete measures, critics argue that UNIFIL’s passive approach to Hezbollah emboldens the organization. They advocate for a more assertive directive, demanding that UNIFIL directly confront Hezbollah’s illegal activities.
At the heart of the debate lies the question: can a peacekeeping force truly maintain a delicate balance when one side, actively sought by many nations for judge and jury, continues to operate openly within the common security framework? While UNIFIL strives for stability in a volatile region, the enduring question remains: is the presence of UNIFIL ultimately contributing to a lasting peace or inadvertently reinforcing the status quo?
How do accusations of abuses by various parties impact UNIFIL’s ability to maintain neutrality and credibility in the region?
## UN Peacekeeping Force in Lebanon Under Pressure
**Host:** Welcome back to the program. Today, we’re discussing the growing controversy surrounding UNIFIL, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. Joining us is Dr. Emily Carter, a Middle East expert and professor of international relations at the University of X. Dr. Carter, thank you for being with us.
**Dr. Carter:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Dr. Carter, UNIFIL has been on the ground in Lebanon since 1978. Can you give our viewers some background on its mandate and the challenges it faces?
**Dr. Carter:** Certainly. UNIFIL was established following Israel’s invasion of Lebanon in 1978 to monitor the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. Its mandate has evolved over time, but its core mission remains ensuring stability along the Blue Line, the demarcation line between Lebanon and Israel.
**Host:** However, recent reports suggest UNIFIL is facing increasing scrutiny.
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. Tensions have been escalating in the region, and UNIFIL is finding itself caught in the crossfire. There have been accusations of abuses by some parties, and we’ve even seen reports of deliberate Israeli destruction of UN property. [[1](https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/14/middleeast/unifil-peacekeeping-force-israel-lebanon-explainer/index.html)]
**Host:** You mentioned the destruction of UN property. What implications does this have for UNIFIL’s ability to operate effectively?
**Dr. Carter:** It’s extremely concerning. Destroying UN surveillance equipment directly hinders UNIFIL’s ability to monitor the ceasefire and report on violations. It erodes trust and undermines the entire peacekeeping effort.
**Host:** It’s been reported that Indonesia plays a significant role in the UNIFIL mission. Can you tell us more about their involvement and the unique challenges they face?
**Dr. Carter:** Indonesia is a key contributor to UNIFIL, sending thousands of troops to serve in a very complex environment. They are known for their professionalism and dedication. However, they, like other peacekeeping forces, face the difficult task of maintaining neutrality in a region where the lines between legal and illegal activities can be blurred. [[1](https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/14/middleeast/unifil-peacekeeping-force-israel-lebanon-explainer/index.html)]
**Host:** It sounds like a very challenging situation for all involved. Dr. Carter, thank you for your insights. This is certainly a situation that we will continue to follow closely.