For International Day of UN Peacekeepers, celebrated May 29, The Media Line spotlighted the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) [1] and its challenges in maintaining peace between Israel and Hezbollah. Despite being established in 1978 to ensure security along the Israel-Lebanon border, UNIFIL has faced increasing criticism for its inability to curb violence from Hezbollah.
UNIFIL, comprising over 10,000 soldiers from 49 nations, was originally tasked with assisting Lebanon’s government in regaining control of the border area and ensuring no armed groups operated south of the Litani River. However, the resurgence of hostilities, especially since October 7, has led to questions about its effectiveness. Andrea Tenenti, UNIFIL’s spokesperson, highlighted the mission’s past successes in maintaining stability and assisting the Lebanese army. Still, critics argue that the force lacks the tools and authority to be a true deterrent against Hezbollah.
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Reports of Hezbollah using UNIFIL bases for military operations and attacking UN peacekeepers have raised serious concerns. Avraham Levine from the Alma Research and Education Center says Hezbollah has more control over UNIFIL than the force has over Hezbollah, describing instances where peacekeepers have been attacked and their vehicles burned. The organization’s educational report also highlighted how Hezbollah operatives have exploited UNIFIL’s presence to shield their activities.
With Hezbollah’s influence growing and the potential for a full-scale conflict looming, some argue that Israel may need to intervene directly in Lebanon again. Critics like Hanin Ghaddar from the Washington Institute suggest that UNIFIL has become more of a cease-fire monitor than a peacekeeping force. The escalating situation raises pressing questions about UNIFIL’s future role and effectiveness. For a detailed examination of these issues, read the full article [1] by Giorgia Valente, an intern in The Media Line’s Press and Policy Student Program.