UN Peacekeepers to Remain in Lebanon Despite Israeli Calls for Withdrawal

BEIRUT: The United Nations peacekeeping force, known as UNIFIL, will maintain its presence in Lebanon, resisting demands from Israeli forces to vacate strategic positions near the Blue Line, according to UN officials. According to Kuwait News Agency, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, confirmed the decision following a series of consultations with the UN Security Council. These discussions were triggered by recent skirmishes involving UNIFIL, which resulted in injuries to four peacekeepers. Lacroix highlighted the importance of the mission's continuity which is vital to uphold the mandate set by the Security Council. The announcement came amid increasing tensions in the region, where recent incidents have underscored the fragile security situation. Lacroix cited the critical need for continued peacekeeping efforts and expressed hope for resuming negotiations aimed at fully implementing the Security Council's resolution. During his address, Lacroix also relayed the una nimous backing of Security Council members for UNIFIL's role and mission in the region. He underscored the council's concerns about the recent targeting of peacekeepers and stressed the obligation of all parties to ensure their safety and security. Furthermore, the UN peacekeeping department, through daily reviews and ongoing communication with the UNIFIL commander, is closely monitoring the situation. Lacroix called on all involved parties to adhere to their international commitments to protect peacekeepers and to coordinate all movements in the area with concerned entities, including Israeli forces. The reaffirmation of UNIFIL's presence follows incidents where Israeli forces targeted UN positions in Lebanon, injuring two peacekeepers at an observation post and two more via a tank shell at another location.