Why is it in the news?

• The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) condemned the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for a recent attack on its personnel, labelling it a violation of international law.
• On October 20, 2024, the IDF reportedly used a bulldozer to demolish an observation tower and perimeter fence at a UN position in Marwahin, near the Israel-Lebanon border.
• UNIFIL emphasized that this breach contravened UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and urged Israel and other parties to ensure the safety of UN personnel.
• Despite Israeli demands for UNIFIL to vacate its positions along the Blue Line—a boundary established by the UN in 2000 to confirm Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon, the peacekeeping force reaffirmed its commitment to its mandate.

Background of UNIFIL

• UN peacekeepers were first deployed in Lebanon in 1978 following Israel’s invasion aimed at expelling armed Palestinian factions.
• Established under Resolutions 425 and 426, UNIFIL’s mission includes confirming the withdrawal of Israeli forces, restoring peace, and assisting the Lebanese government.
• The region has been a longstanding conflict zone, particularly between the IDF and Hezbollah.
• Following Israel’s withdrawal in 2000, conflict reignited in 2006, leading to the adoption of Resolution 1701, which expanded UNIFIL’s mandate to assist Lebanese armed forces and monitor unauthorized weapons.

Israel’s Violations and UN Relations

• Israel’s actions against UNIFIL, including recent attacks on its positions, violate international law.
• Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed international condemnation, urging UNIFIL to “move out of harm’s way,” effectively asking them to neglect their responsibilities.
• This defiance is unprecedented for a UN member state and reflects Israel’s ongoing hostility towards various UN agencies, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
• Recently, Israel declared UN Secretary-General António Guterres persona non grata, further straining relations.

India’s Contribution to UNIFIL

• India has been a significant contributor to UNIFIL, with 903 personnel deployed as of October 2024, ranking behind Indonesia and Italy.
• Indian peacekeepers, known as INDBATT, have served in Lebanon since 1998, recognized for their professionalism and community engagement.
• Notable initiatives include the establishment of the Mahatma Gandhi Park in Ebel el Saqi and the Sardar Patel Stadium in Kawkaba, along with providing IT equipment and medical aid. INDBATT’s medical mission has been particularly valued in the region.

Hezbollah’s Role and the Lebanese Army

• Israel has criticized UNIFIL for allegedly failing to curb Hezbollah’s activities, claiming it necessitates military action. However, this critique overlooks UNIFIL’s limited mandate, which focuses on assistance and monitoring rather than direct military engagement.
• Resolution 1701 clearly designates the Lebanese armed forces as responsible for security in the region. Hezbollah operates as both a militant and political entity in Lebanon, holding significant influence with 62 out of 128 parliamentary seats.
• Despite its substantial role, the Lebanese army, facing resource limitations, continues to uphold its responsibilities while framing its actions as self-defense against Israeli aggression.