'Israel' hindering Lebanese Army deployment in south: UNIFIL
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The UN mission stated that Israeli troops continue to occupy Lebanese territory, hindering the LAF's full deployment.
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UNIFIL convoy patrols southern Lebanon amid ongoing tensions. (X, @UNIFIL_)
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has accused "Israel" of obstructing the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) from fully establishing a permanent security presence in southern Lebanon, denouncing ongoing breaches of international agreements and ceasefire terms.
In a statement published Monday on X, UNIFIL revealed that, with its support, the LAF has redeployed to over 120 fixed positions south of the Litani River since November 2024. However, the peacekeeping mission stressed that "Israel's" continued occupation of Lebanese territory is preventing the army's full deployment.
"Since November, with UNIFIL support, the LAF has redeployed to more than 120 permanent positions south of the Litani. Full deployment is hindered by the presence of Israeli forces in Lebanese territory," the mission stated.
UNIFIL also disclosed that its peacekeepers had uncovered and handed over 225 weapon caches to the Lebanese military since the latest ceasefire came into effect. The multinational force, composed of more than 10,000 personnel from around 50 countries, continues its around-the-clock patrols to monitor violations of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, while maintaining close coordination with the Lebanese authorities.
Since November, with UNIFIL support, the LAF has redeployed to more than 120 permanent positions south of the Litani. Full deployment is hindered by the presence of Israeli forces in Lebanese territory. Peacekeepers have found over 225 weapons caches and referred them to the LAF.
— UNIFIL (@UNIFIL_) May 12, 2025
Ongoing violations of Resolution 1701
Resolution 1701, passed in 2006, reaffirmed Lebanon's sovereignty, demanded "Israel's" withdrawal from the south, and prohibited any armed groups other than the official Lebanese state forces from operating south of the Litani River.
Despite the ceasefire agreement reached on November 27, 2024, following over a year of Israeli attacks, "Israel" has failed to fulfill its withdrawal obligations. UNIFIL reports that Israeli forces continue to occupy five positions along the Lebanese border, in direct violation of both the ceasefire and Resolution 1701.
Originally, "Israel" was required to withdraw by January 26, a deadline later extended to February 18. However, no full withdrawal has taken place.
Read more: Failing to name 'Israel', UN says ceasefire timelines not met
Persistent Israeli strikes in Lebanon
Adding to concerns, the Israeli military has continued conducting strikes within Lebanese territory, including targeted bombings in the southern regions and the suburbs of Beirut. Israeli officials justify these attacks by claiming they are aimed at "neutralizing Hezbollah threats," yet UNIFIL maintains that such actions undermine Lebanon's sovereignty and exacerbate regional instability.
UNIFIL Commander Lt. Gen. Aroldo Lázaro recently echoed these concerns, warning that "Israel's continued military activities have blocked the full deployment of the Lebanese army and delayed the return of thousands of displaced civilians."
Read more: 'Israel's' violations threaten South Lebanon stability: UNIFIL Chief
Since the ceasefire's implementation, UNIFIL has documented thousands of violations, including airspace breaches, cross-border military incursions, artillery shelling, and drone attacks, all contributing to the fragile security situation in the region.
While UNIFIL's mandate is limited to observation and reporting, the mission continues to advocate for full compliance with Resolution 1701, noting that stability in southern Lebanon depends on genuine political will and adherence to international law.
