As the Israeli army continues to pressure the UN peacekeepers to abandon southern Lebanon, the international community remains seemingly hesitant in its response, turning UNIFIL into a should-I-stay-or-should-I-go mission. As US diplomacy seeks last-minute solutions for a ceasefire in Lebanon right before the presidential elections, the Israeli army has increased its pressure against the alleged Hezbollah hideouts in southern Lebanon and Beirut. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) is likely trying to force a withdrawal of the UN forces to pave the way for reoccupation of the territory without the presence of third elements like UN forces. The defence ministers of the G7 have expressed their concern for all threats to the security of UNIFIL and renewed their support to ensure the stability of Lebanon.
Among European countries, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain are the biggest contributors to the Blue Helmets. Last Thursday, a German corvette ship shot down an intrusive drone, highlighting the importance of UNIFIL’s presence. Former Italian foreign minister, Enzo Moavero Milanesi, emphasized that the UN’s withdrawal could have negative implications for Europe, potentially leading to another conflict close to its borders. The role of UNIFIL is crucial in maintaining stability in the region, making it a vital element of European presence in the Middle East.
The rules of engagement for UNIFIL present a political firewall, limiting the use of force and providing guidelines for the peacekeepers on how to respond to military attacks. French General Olivier Passot explains that UNIFIL is not a combat tool and has not been in combat since 1978. Despite being under fire from Hezbollah on several occasions while attempting to prevent their illegitimate military activities, UNIFIL must adhere to rules governing the use of force. The peacekeepers have limited retaliatory powers but can act in self-defence based on the rules of engagement.
UNIFIL operates as a multinational coalition composed of soldiers from 50 countries worldwide. These soldiers operate under national command while carrying out ground operations overseen by the battalion commander from their country. The decision-making process involving reporting to higher authorities can limit the initiative of local tactical commanders in certain situations. The relationship between the EU countries that contribute to UNIFIL and Israel can impact the peacekeepers’ actions, as opening fire on the IDF could have political consequences, despite the need to remove obstacles posed by Hezbollah activities in the region.
The accusations between the Blue Helmets and the IDF have escalated beyond just the battlefield. Israel believes that Resolution 1701 has failed to provide security against Hezbollah and that UNIFIL lacks international legal legitimacy to operate in South Lebanon. However, experts argue that the resolution remains binding, and UNIFIL continues its mission as an interposition force. While the resolution has not been fully implemented, UNIFIL plays a crucial role in observing and reporting to the international community and the UN Secretary-General.
UNIFIL’s liaison branch plays a critical role in ensuring communication between the Lebanese and Israeli sides. This function helps prevent unintentional escalation of conflicts and has been pivotal in maintaining peace during low-intensity phases of the conflict. The liaison branch has helped avoid misunderstandings between patrols from both sides, reducing the potential for accidental confrontations. Despite criticism of UN military missions for their perceived ineffectiveness, such as during the Bosnian war, UNIFIL’s role in facilitating communication and preventing accidental escalations remains vital in conflict zones.
