UN Calls for New Capabilities for UNIFIL in Lebanon Following Ceasefire
A soldier on patrol with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in southern Lebanon Nov 27, 2024 Photo: EFE
November 27, 2024 Hour: 8:02 pm
The ceasefire agreement primarily involves the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon and the relocation of Hezbollah forces north of the Litani River, which will require the deployment of thousands of Lebanese army soldiers in that area.
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The United Nations has indicated that the ceasefire that took effect today between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon will necessitate new capabilities for its peacekeeping mission, known as UNIFIL.
During a press briefing, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq stated that the organization is currently “studying with the parties how to support the implementation of the agreement in line with UNIFIL’s mandate and very likely new capabilities” for this force.
The ceasefire agreement primarily involves the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon and the relocation of Hezbollah forces north of the Litani River, which will require the deployment of thousands of Lebanese army soldiers in that area.
However, details on how this deployment will be carried out still need to be finalized, with UNIFIL expected to play a crucial role.
Haq explained that “UNIFIL will continue its observation mission and will keep reporting violations of Resolution 1701, as well as providing support to the Lebanese Armed Forces to extend state authority throughout Lebanese territory.”
He further assured that UNIFIL “is prepared to assume all necessary responsibilities,” but emphasized that any mandate related to new tasks will have to be discussed within the Security Council, the body responsible for peacekeeping missions worldwide.
Haq’s statements today open the door for a potential new resolution that could enhance the mission’s capabilities.
Autor: MLM
Fuente: EFE
