Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent request to remove UN peacekeeping forces (UNIFIL) from southern Lebanon stems from a broader strategy. This strategy targets the United Nations and its Secretary-General, António Guterres, while considering military factors on the ground.
Israel’s Shift in Stance Towards the UN
Political analyst Ali Shukr explained that Israel has moved from hostile rhetoric against the UN to taking direct actions. The presence of UNIFIL forces along the Lebanese-Israeli border plays a key role in this shift. These forces are stationed at strategic points that benefit the Israeli military by offering vital intelligence on Lebanese positions.
Netanyahu’s request looks like an attempt to shift responsibility for future attacks on UN troops away from Israel. Removing UNIFIL forces would leave Israel free to act without facing immediate international backlash.
The Impact of UN Resolution 1701
Netanyahu’s call ties into Israel’s long-term goal of weakening UN Resolution 1701. This resolution, adopted in 2006, ended the Second Lebanon War. It required Hezbollah to withdraw behind the Litani River and allowed the Lebanese Army to control the south.
Shukr noted that while Israel seeks to dismiss certain aspects of the resolution, it still supports parts that work in its favor. Despite the current request, UNIFIL will likely stay in the region due to its international mandate.
Hezbollah’s Position
Hezbollah appears unaffected by Israel’s request. The group has a strong presence across Lebanon and doesn’t rely on UNIFIL’s withdrawal. In contrast, Israel benefits more by clearing strategic locations for future military operations.
Netanyahu’s Public Statements
In a recent speech, Netanyahu urged Guterres to remove UNIFIL forces from southern Lebanon. He claimed this would prevent them from getting caught in the conflict. This statement followed several Israeli attacks on UNIFIL positions during recent border clashes.
Israeli Actions Against UNIFIL
Today, UNIFIL reported that Israeli forces stormed one of its positions in the town of Ramyah, southern Lebanon. This incident follows a series of Israeli actions targeting UNIFIL in the past few days.
Background on UNIFIL’s Mission
UNIFIL was formed in March 1978 to oversee Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon and help restore peace. It also assists the Lebanese government in regaining control over southern Lebanon. The mission expanded after the 2006 Lebanon War, taking on new roles like monitoring ceasefires and supporting humanitarian aid delivery.
