The United Nations has called for the prompt withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, citing violations of international agreements and a fragile ceasefire.
UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, addressed the Security Council, emphasizing that while the cessation of hostilities between Lebanon and Israel remains tenuous, it continues to hold. He highlighted the Lebanese government’s commitment to upholding the ceasefire and noted that the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in the south is contingent upon the prior withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Lacroix expressed concern over ongoing Israeli activities, stating, “With 10 days until the end of the stated 60-day period for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon, Israeli demolitions of tunnels, buildings, and agricultural land continue.” He also reported instances of airstrikes and violations of Lebanese airspace, underscoring that the IDF’s presence contravenes Security Council Resolution 1701, which concluded the 2006 Lebanon war.
The UN official urged Israel to adhere to the agreed timeline, stating the necessity for withdrawal “without delay, certainly by the end of the period envisaged in the announcement of the cessation of hostilities.” He also highlighted challenges faced by UN personnel, who have been confined to bases or forced to seek shelter due to IDF operations, and noted that UNIFIL’s activities are hindered by unexploded ordnance, IDF roadblocks, and local interference.
Patrick Gauchat, head of the UN Truce Supervision Organization, reported Israeli construction and the establishment of communication equipment within the area of separation, actions that violate the 1974 disengagement agreement with Syria. He emphasized the importance of allowing UN peacekeepers to perform their duties without obstruction.
Lebanon’s newly appointed President, Joseph Aoun, has reiterated the urgency of Israeli withdrawal from the south, aligning with the ceasefire agreement that ended the recent conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. During discussions with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Aoun condemned ongoing Israeli breaches as violations of Lebanese sovereignty and the ceasefire terms.
The ceasefire, effective since November 27 and brokered by the U.S. and France, mandates Israeli forces to withdraw within 60 days and requires Hezbollah to remove its militants and weapons from the area. Despite the agreement, Israeli forces have continued operations against Hezbollah, citing the group’s non-compliance with the ceasefire by failing to halt attacks and retreat beyond the Litani River.
As the deadline approaches, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging all parties to adhere to their commitments to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
