'Israel' deliberately attacked UNIFIL, spokesperson says: Exclusive
7 Min Read
The spokesperson for the peacekeeping force in Lebanon underlines that they were subjected to several deliberate attacks by the Israeli occupation.
-
Andrea Tenenti, spokesperson for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, speaks during an interview with the Associated Press, at the UNIFIL headquarters in the southern Lebanese town of Naqoura, Lebanon, April 9, 2019 (AP)
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon is not directly involved in ceasefire negotiations within Lebanon but remains vigilant regarding their outcome, UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti said on Monday.
In an interview with Al Mayadeen Media Network, Tenenti noted that the international community is intensifying diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Lebanon, especially after the escalation of Israeli aggression and the continuation of the war, which has now lasted over 15 months, spreading from Gaza to Lebanon.
Tenenti emphasized UNIFIL's active diplomatic role through ongoing meetings with concerned parties. He revealed that discussions revolve around implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, describing it as pivotal for ensuring lasting stability and security in Lebanon.
"Resolution 1701 remains the cornerstone for reestablishing stability in Lebanon. We await the results of the negotiations to see how they can be translated into tangible outcomes acceptable to all parties," Tenenti stated.
Changes to UNIFIL's mandate
Regarding potential changes to UNIFIL's mandate, including expanded personnel or logistical capabilities, Tenenti told Al Mayadeen, "Any modifications depend on the conclusion of ceasefire negotiations and reaching a final agreement." He added that UNIFIL operates under the request of both the Lebanese government and the 15-member UN Security Council, which has the authority to amend its responsibilities.
Until then, UNIFIL will continue its mission as outlined in Resolution 1701, which has yet to be fully implemented.
Tenenti stressed UNIFIL's dedication to supporting stability and security in southern Lebanon, drawing its authority from Resolution 1701. Despite challenges over 17 years, he emphasized the importance of resuming stability through collaboration with Lebanon's political and military institutions.
"Lebanese stability is crucial for our mission, and we remain committed to assisting in its restoration despite differing opinions and ongoing challenges," he said.
Pivotal role of the Lebanese Army
With support from certain international stakeholders, UNIFIL could potentially assist in disarmament efforts or ensure that weapons are not proliferated in specific border areas, aiming to foster stability for southern Lebanese communities, he added.
Tenenti went on to underscore the critical importance of the Lebanese Army in implementing Resolution 1701, noting years of cooperation since the 2006 war. He reiterated that the army and Lebanon's political framework are integral to sustaining stability in southern Lebanon.
Tenenti noted that the proposed bolstering of the Lebanese Army's presence, including building new military bases along the border, might influence UNIFIL's future responsibilities. "The conclusion of negotiations will likely bring changes to UNIFIL's role or assign it a different scope, especially following the 15 months of ongoing conflict," he said.
"UNIFIL has been transparent in its operations in southern Lebanon. While some Lebanese factions accuse us of aligning with Israel, others claim we favor Hezbollah. Our aim remains neutrality and fairness," Tenenti affirmed.
Israeli violations, aggression
Regarding repeated violations by Israeli forces, Tenenti disclosed that UNIFIL has communicated its concerns to the international community. He detailed instances where the Israeli occupation forces entered Lebanese territory, prompting strong objections.
Despite demands for withdrawal from its positions in southern Lebanon, UNIFIL maintained its presence, asserting its mandate to operate in the region. "We have faced intentional attacks, including heavy artillery shelling in areas like Chama and Naqoura, as well as other points such as Labouneh, leading to casualties within our ranks."
Tenenti criticized the occupation's actions as repeated breaches of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and other international laws. He emphasized that the Security Council must evaluate and respond to these violations.
He also reaffirmed that there was no military solution to the conflict. "The only resolution for Lebanon is diplomatic and political," he stressed.
UNIFIL 'not biased'
Addressing accusations of bias and inaction, Tenenti rejected claims that UNIFIL ignores Israeli aggressions. "I have been transparent in condemning repeated Israeli attacks. Our mission requires impartiality, whether dealing with Israel or Hezbollah," he explained.
Tenenti also decried misinformation spread about UNIFIL's role in the war. He assured that all reports and positions are documented and accessible to the UN Security Council and the international community.
Tenenti reiterated UNIFIL's dedication to "supporting long-term peace," stating that "future objectives must be realistic and centered on sustainable stability."
"Our mandate is clear, and our commitment to southern Lebanon remains unwavering, even amid challenges and misconceptions," he added.
Andrea Tenenti, spokesperson for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), confirmed that despite significant challenges, the force remains committed to its monitoring and observation duties in southern Lebanon.
Tenenti revealed that UNIFIL faced disruptions to its operations due to security complexities but maintained its presence to provide critical information to the UN Security Council and support local communities. "We were asked to leave southern Lebanon, but we stayed for this very reason—to ensure the continuity of our monitoring role and to aid the local population," he said.
In a similar vein, Tenenti addressed the recent incident where UNIFIL naval forces intercepted and downed a Lebanese drone near its maritime vessel, claiming it posed a threat. "The drone was only 50 meters away from our ship, prompting us to follow security protocols and neutralize it. We were unaware of the drone's source and have no intention of engaging in the conflict or taking sides," he clarified.
Security challenges
The worsening security situation has complicated UNIFIL's mission, Tenenti explained, adding, "We continue deploying delegations and UNIFIL soldiers to bolster the confidence of residents in southern Lebanese villages. However, this support cannot persist without reducing tensions and addressing risks."
He noted parallels between the difficulties faced by journalists covering events in southern Lebanon and those encountered by UNIFIL, emphasizing the shared challenges in operating within a high-risk environment.
Tenenti reiterated UNIFIL's impartiality, emphasizing that the force had no ties to any political parties in Lebanon, including Hezbollah. "Our engagement is strictly with Lebanese authorities and the Lebanese Army on one side, and the Israeli Army on the other. We maintain open communication channels to ensure our operations align with Resolution 1701," he said.
Argentine withdrawal
Responding to Argentina's withdrawal of four personnel from UNIFIL, Tenenti stated that member states have the autonomy to decide whether to remain or withdraw. "Argentina made its choice, and while we cannot comment on their reasoning, this decision does not impact the commitment of other contributing nations to our mission in Lebanon," he explained.
Tenenti concluded by reaffirming UNIFIL's dedication to its mandate under Resolution 1701. "Our personnel spend long hours in shelters within our facilities due to the security situation, but we remain steadfast in our mission. We are committed to staying in southern Lebanon until the conflict ends and sustainable stability is achieved," he asserted.
