UNIFIL resolution vote postponement benefits 'Israel': Israeli media

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Israeli Media
31 Aug 2023 13:43

The postponement of the UNIFIL draft resolution vote to include Israeli-favored amendments favorable for Israeli interests, according to an Israel Hayom article.

UN peacekeepers (UNIFIL) seen along the Lebanese side of the border with occupied Palestine, Thursday, July 6, 2023 (AP)

Shirit Avitan Cohen, the diplomatic affairs correspondent and political analyst for the Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom, reports that the postponement of the vote to renew the UNIFIL mandate in Lebanon serves Israeli interests. She notes that "Israel" views UNIFIL's role as crucial to preventing escalation with Hezbollah.

Israel Hayom reports the initial draft resolution that was supposed to be voted upon, which includes a clause demanding the coordination between UNIFIL and the Lebanese Army, was postponed through the efforts of the Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, who worked behind the scenes to amend the wording of the UNIFIL mandate renewal resolution.

"Israel" perceives this delay as favorable to its interests, the newspaper reports.

In recent months, the newspaper added, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been actively showcasing UNIFIL's vitality to members of the Security Council, even conducting tours along the border.

The goal is not only to secure the renewal of the mandate but also to maintain a clause ensuring UNIFIL's freedom of operation, Israel Hayom adds.

Among other concerns, "Israel" opposes the request of the Lebanese Army to accompany UNIFIL patrols on the border. Consequently, expectations are that UNIFIL's presence on the border will not be elevated.

The newspaper, explains that in "Israel", there's a focus on achieving an effective mandate that ensures a tangible presence of United Nations troops along the border.