Who Are UN Peacekeepers? Know Their Role And Presence In Lebanon As Israel Attacks UN Positions

UNIFIL confirmed that its headquarters in Naqoura was struck by explosions for the second time in 48 hours, following an earlier attack by Israeli forces on the same location. Two peacekeepers were injured in explosions near an observation tower, as stated in a UN mission report. The peacekeeping mission asserted that the safety of UN personnel must be guaranteed and that any attack on peacekeepers is a serious violation of international humanitarian law. 

Who Are UN Peacekeepers

UN peacekeepers, often referred to as Blue Helmets or Blue Berets due to their distinctive headgear, are deployed globally to facilitate the transition from conflict to peace. They play a crucial role in monitoring peace processes in post-conflict areas, helping to enforce peace agreements and supporting initiatives aimed at restoring stability. 

The UN's Department of Peace Operations oversees these missions, which involve troops, police and civilians working together under mandates set by the UN Security Council.

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UNIFIL: United Nations Interim Force n Lebanon

Established in March 1978 in response to Israel's invasion of Lebanon, UNIFIL's mission is to ensure stability and security in southern Lebanon. This area, which includes Hezbollah strongholds, has seen various iterations of conflict since the UN's deployment. 

Today, nearly 11,000 personnel serve under UNIFIL, which includes approximately 10,000 military staff from 50 different countries. The mission operates within a defined area of 410 square miles and has maintained a significant presence despite ongoing regional tensions.

United Nations peacekeepers are determined to remain at their posts in southern Lebanon as the Israeli hostilities continue in the Middle East. (Image: United Nations)

UNIFIL's Role In Israel-Hezbollah War

Before the latest hostilities erupted, UNIFIL monitored a ceasefire that had largely held since 2006. However, following Hezbollah's rocket attacks on Israel in October 2023, the peacekeepers' role shifted to patrolling an active conflict zone. UNIFIL continues to attempt to de-escalate tensions by facilitating communication between Israeli and Lebanese military forces, although its formal mediation mechanisms have been suspended due to increased hostilities.

The peacekeepers' activities have become increasingly challenging as Israeli forces have intensified operations in southern Lebanon. In response to rising tensions, UNIFIL has warned that any activities compromising the safety of peacekeepers are unacceptable. 

The UN mission also reported that it has observed significant exchanges of fire between Israeli and Hezbollah forces, with airstrikes and ground incursions targeting areas across the Blue Line.

Despite the dangers, UNIFIL has affirmed its commitment to maintaining its presence in the region. Following Israeli military orders for UN forces to evacuate their positions, UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti stated that the mission needed to continue operating under its mandate. 

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UNIFIL Work For Peacekeeping In Lebanon 

UNIFIL plays an essential role in preventing misunderstandings and potential escalations between Israel and Lebanon. The mission's liaison mechanisms have been vital in managing the complex dynamics of the border area. By patrolling and monitoring the situation on the ground, UN peacekeepers contribute to stability, even as confrontations between Israeli forces and UN personnel have increased.

Additionally, UNIFIL supports the Lebanese Armed Forces through training, facilitating their deployment in the region to eventually assume security responsibilities from UN peacekeepers. The mission also includes a Maritime Task Force that monitors Lebanon’s territorial waters to prevent the smuggling of unauthorised arms.