Naqoura, Lebanon – The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) expressed its deep concern on Thursday regarding the dangerous military escalation along the Blue Line in recent hours. It emphasized that the intensity of the hostilities has reached alarming levels, threatening to undermine the fragile stability in the region.
Statistics on escalation and violation of Resolution 1701
In an official statement detailing the scale of last night’s clashes, the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) revealed that its radars and ground forces detected the launch of more than 120 projectiles from Lebanese territory toward Israel. In response, UNIFIL recorded a fierce Israeli retaliation, including seven airstrikes. It also recorded more than 120 artillery shelling incidents. UNIFIL stressed that these actions constitute “grave and unacceptable violations of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.” This resolution aims to maintain a buffer zone free of armed personnel and military equipment between the Blue Line and the Litani River.
A heavy human cost
The mission warned of the catastrophic consequences of this military escalation, noting that the recent fighting has once again displaced hundreds of thousands of people on both sides of the border. In addition, widespread destruction has affected residential areas and border villages. Reports indicate hundreds of deaths and injuries. The mission emphasized that “civilians, as in every conflict, are the most affected and bear the brunt of the violence.”
Field role and mediation
Despite the precarious security situation, UNIFIL confirmed that its peacekeeping forces remain deployed in their positions on the ground. It continues to monitor developments and report to the Security Council with complete impartiality. UNIFIL also noted its ongoing efforts to coordinate between the parties, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, and protect civilians in the affected areas. The international force concluded its statement by reiterating its call for the parties to “immediately cease hostilities” and fully comply with Resolution 1701 to ensure the safety of civilians. It affirmed that it remains in “close contact with Lebanese and Israeli officials” and declared its full readiness to support any effort aimed at de-escalating the situation and restoring a cessation of hostilities.
