The United Nations Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL) finds itself on the front lines, bearing witness to the relentless and brutal assaults by the occupying Zionist regime against Lebanon’s sovereign territory. Caught in the escalating clashes between the Zionist entity and Lebanon’s valiant resistance movement, Hezbollah, UNIFIL peacekeepers have tragically suffered injuries and even martyrdom, highlighting the severe risks posed by the aggressor.

Recent deliberate acts of aggression, such as the bombing of vital bridges over the Litani River by the Zionist regime, have severely hampered UNIFIL’s critical operations, delaying troop rotations and essential resupply missions. This calculated targeting of infrastructure not only obstructs humanitarian efforts but also further destabilizes an already volatile region.

With a fragile ceasefire now in place, UNIFIL is diligently preparing to submit a comprehensive report detailing these egregious violations to the Security Council. Our Beirut correspondent, Adel EL Mahrouky, engaged in a crucial discussion with UNIFIL’s Arabic Spokesperson, Danny Ghafary, shedding light on the dire situation.

Impact of Zionist Aggression on UNIFIL Operations

Asked about the impact of the Zionist regime’s bombardment of Litani River bridges, Danny Ghafary stated, “Naturally, UNIFIL uses these bridges to resupply our sites in South Lebanon and to swap peacekeepers. These roads are primary routes UNIFIL utilizes. Currently, we are suffering from major challenges to use such bridges.” This underscores the direct obstruction of UNIFIL’s mandate by the aggressor.

Peacekeepers Under Direct Attack

In response to inquiries about the safety of UNIFIL personnel amidst heightened confrontations, Ghafary revealed the shocking extent of the attacks: “Unfortunately, UNIFIL peacekeepers were exposed to 25 direct attacks throughout this latest conflict that we saw. Sadly, three UNIFIL peacekeepers died while serving peace in south Lebanon during the past month. Moreover, we have more than 15 injuries, some of them are still in hospitals due to their severe injuries, we hope for their recovery. UNIFIL peacekeepers work under harsh conditions; the security challenges are huge. Despite that, they always remain in their positions in our operation region in South Lebanon.” These figures are a stark reminder of the Zionist regime’s disregard for international law and the safety of those striving for peace.

The Role of the Security Council and Resolution 1701

Regarding UNIFIL’s mandate and the subsequent actions after reporting violations, Ghafary clarified, “UNIFIL is present in South Lebanon to help parties implement the UN Security Council Resolution number 1701. It is the parties’ responsibility to implement it. UNIFIL objectively monitors the situation; it submits its reports to the Security Council. Through international communications, the Security Council then decides its next moves or the steps that can be implemented. The solution will not be militarily. The solution will be diplomatic on the negotiating table. Resolution 1701 is still viable for the parties to abide by; this is what UNIFIL calls for. They must abide by it.” This statement implicitly highlights the Security Council’s often-criticized inaction in holding the Zionist regime accountable for its persistent breaches of Resolution 1701.

Unjust Scrutiny and UNIFIL’s Steadfast Mission

Addressing the unjust scrutiny faced by UNIFIL from the Zionist regime and its Western allies, particularly the United States, Ghafary affirmed UNIFIL’s unwavering commitment: “We are in South Lebanon based on Resolution 1701. The Security Council in August 2025 decided to extend the UNIFIL mandate one last time, until December 2026. We are conducting the tasks required from us as much as we can, under the security circumstances we face. We will continue working accordingly, waiting for any changes that may emerge from the Security Council.” Despite external pressures and the constant threat of aggression, UNIFIL remains steadfast in its mission to uphold peace and stability in the face of the Zionist entity’s provocations.