Wed Nov 27 16:08:34 UTC 2024: ## UNIFIL’s Failure in Lebanon: A Peacekeeping Mission Under Fire

**Beirut, Lebanon** – The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has demonstrably failed in its peacekeeping mission, according to a recent analysis. Despite its long presence and expanded mandate, UNIFIL has been unable to prevent Israeli aggression against Lebanon or protect its civilian population, resulting in thousands of casualties since October 2023 alone.

The analysis details numerous instances where UNIFIL positions were deliberately targeted by the Israeli army, including attacks on headquarters and the massacre of civilians at UN bases, like the 1996 Qana incident. Even with a significant troop increase after the 2006 war, UNIFIL has failed to disarm non-state actors like Hezbollah, a key part of its mandate. Furthermore, the report highlights that UNIFIL has consistently refrained from returning fire against Israeli attacks.

The report also criticizes the lack of accountability for Israel’s actions by troop-contributing countries, particularly European nations, who have continued to send troops despite the persistent danger. This inaction, coupled with UNIFIL’s perceived passivity, has led to deep mistrust among the Lebanese population, particularly in Shia communities who have borne the brunt of Israeli violence.

The analysis points to UNIFIL’s use of aid projects as a tool for pacification, with assistance often conditional on local cooperation and suppressing resistance movements. This tactic has further eroded trust and reinforced the view of UNIFIL as a tool of Israeli interests rather than a neutral peacekeeping force.

With a new ceasefire in place, the report calls for a fundamental reassessment of UNIFIL’s role. Simply expanding its mandate and resources is unlikely to improve its effectiveness unless the root cause—Israel’s continued aggression—is addressed. The author argues that troop-contributing countries, particularly European nations, must hold Israel accountable for its actions and reconsider their diplomatic and trade relations if lasting peace is to be achieved in Lebanon. This requires a just resolution to the Palestinian issue and respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty. The author concludes that true peace in Lebanon is impossible under the shadow of ongoing Israeli occupation.

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