The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) announced that it faces serious obstacles restricting its freedom of movement in southern Lebanon. In a statement on Wednesday, the peacekeeping force noted road closures that have temporarily suspended patrol and security activities.
UNIFIL stated that its peacekeepers continue to conduct observations on the ground and report violations they detect. The statement emphasized that these efforts are carried out in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701.
Addressing the challenges encountered, the statement said, "Peacekeeping personnel continue to face restrictions limiting their freedom of movement. The closure of roads due to barriers, debris, and other obstacles leads to the temporary suspension of critical patrols and security-related operations."
Although the UN peacekeeping force did not explicitly state which side is responsible for the restrictions, it is known that Israel remains an occupying power in southern Lebanon and has closed roads in areas near the border line.
UNIFIL stated that despite all these difficulties, it continues to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid and that its peacekeeping troops remain at their posts committed to supporting stability in southern Lebanon.
UNIFIL's mandate was extended
The UN Security Council, through Resolution 2790 adopted unanimously on August 28, 2025, extended UNIFIL's mandate for a final time until December 31, 2026. According to the resolution, a phased, coordinated, and safe reduction and withdrawal of the peacekeeping force is envisaged starting in 2027 within one year.
Historical background: The establishment of UNIFIL
UNIFIL was established following Israel's invasion of southern Lebanon in 1978. Later, UN Security Council Resolution 1701, adopted to end the July War of 2006 (between Hezbollah and Israel), strengthened the peacekeeping force's tasks.
Resolution 1701 calls for the cessation of all hostile actions between the parties, support for the deployment of the Lebanese army in the south, monitoring the ceasefire, facilitating humanitarian aid delivery to civilians, and ensuring the safe return of displaced persons.
Israel's attacks on Lebanon
Meanwhile, Israel has been carrying out military attacks on Lebanon since March 2, 2026. According to official data, more than 4,200 people have been killed and over 12,000 wounded in the attacks. It is reported that Israeli forces have advanced up to 10 kilometers deep and occupied some areas in the south of the country.
Ridvan Sezer | Editor-in-Chief
