Netanyahu Calls for UNIFIL Withdrawal Amid Tensions with Lebanon
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the United Nations peacekeeping force, known as UNIFIL, from southern Lebanon. In a televised address on October 13, 2024, Netanyahu urged UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to take action, claiming that the peacekeepers are endangering themselves by remaining in Hezbollah strongholds. He accused UNIFIL of providing a 'human shield' for Hezbollah fighters, stating that the presence of these forces puts both their lives and the lives of the Israeli military at risk.
Netanyahu's remarks come in the wake of recent incidents where UNIFIL soldiers were injured due to Israeli military actions. On October 10, two peacekeepers were hurt when the Israeli army targeted a UN observation tower, and the following day, artillery shells were fired at the UNIFIL command center in Naqoura. Netanyahu expressed regret over the injuries sustained by UNIFIL personnel and emphasized the need for their withdrawal from danger zones to prevent further incidents.
Mikati Defends UNIFIL's Role and Calls for International Support
In response to Netanyahu's demands, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati firmly rejected the call for UNIFIL's withdrawal, reaffirming Lebanon's commitment to UN Resolution 1701 and the vital role of UNIFIL in maintaining peace in the region. Mikati accused Netanyahu of undermining international legitimacy and suggested that Israel's actions represent a broader pattern of aggression against Lebanon.
Mikati's remarks highlight the ongoing tensions between Israel and Lebanon, particularly concerning the role of UNIFIL, which was established in 1978 to monitor the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon and assist in restoring peace and security. The mission has evolved over the years, especially after significant conflicts in 1982, 2000, and the 2006 war, to include monitoring ceasefires and supporting humanitarian efforts. Mikati has called on the international community to take a strong stance against Israeli aggression, emphasizing the need for UNIFIL's presence to protect Lebanese sovereignty and maintain stability in the area.
