The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported on Sunday that the Israeli military “deliberately demolished” a watchtower and a surrounding fence at one of their sites in southern Lebanon. According to UNIFIL, an Israeli army bulldozer carried out the demolition in Marwahin. Despite the ongoing pressures faced by the mission and the contributing countries, UNIFIL confirmed that their soldiers remain stationed at all their positions.
The incident marks a continuation of hostilities, as UNIFIL has accused Israeli forces of “repeated” and “deliberate” attacks on their positions following an escalation in confrontations between Israel and Hezbollah last month. Although the Israeli military stated it did not target the international force intentionally, the series of incidents has provoked widespread international condemnation. UNIFIL has been stationed in southern Lebanon since 1978 following an Israeli military operation, and its role was expanded after the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel.
The recent tensions between Israel and UNIFIL in Lebanon have escalated notably. Israeli forces are reported to have deliberately targeted UNIFIL outposts, with incidents including the demolition of a watchtower and fence, and even the use of white phosphorus. This aggression has led to international criticism and concern for the safety of peacekeepers.
Israel has justified its actions as part of a broader security doctrine aimed at clearing Hezbollah from the area up to the Litani River, to ensure the safety of its borders as per UN Security Council Resolution 1701. This resolution was established to prevent Hezbollah’s militarization in Southern Lebanon but has been repeatedly violated, according to Israeli reports. The Lebanese government has been accused of not enforcing this resolution effectively, allowing Hezbollah to maintain a strong presence in the area.
The recent invasion by Israel into Southern Lebanon, described as one of several since 1978, aims to weaken Hezbollah’s strongholds and reduce the threat of attacks on Israeli territory. This military strategy includes intensive air and ground operations, targeting Hezbollah positions across Lebanon, not just in the south but extending to areas near the Syrian border as well.
