The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) confirmed that peacekeeping soldiers coming from about 50 countries continue to fully commit to their mandate and maintain a clear field presence in various parts of southern Lebanon, in light of the continuing state of instability and field tension.
UNIFIL explained that the daily activities of its forces include patrolling, monitoring and coordination, in addition to supporting partners working in the humanitarian field, within the framework of the tasks assigned to it in its area of operations.
She stressed that civilians bear the brunt of the conflict, in light of the disruption it causes in their daily lives and a state of uncertainty for families, in addition to the risks of displacement and safety concerns.
She stressed that every effort made by peacekeepers to reduce the level of tension, prevent misunderstanding, and keep communication channels open contributes to preventing escalation, stressing that “instability is not in anyone’s interest.”
UNIFIL called on all parties to renew their commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, stop violations related to it, and refrain from any provocative steps or actions that could lead to increased tension or further violations.
This call comes as UNIFIL continues to carry out its patrols and monitoring and coordination tasks in the south, as the mission confirmed in previous statements that it is maintaining its field presence and communicating with the Lebanese and Israeli sides with the aim of reducing the escalation, in addition to facilitating humanitarian support and protecting civilians wherever possible.
Resolution 1701, which was approved by the Security Council in August 2006, constitutes the basic international framework for regulating the security situation in southern Lebanon, and UNIFIL confirmed on August 11, 2026, on the 20th anniversary of its adoption, that its principles remain the cornerstone of efforts aimed at maintaining stability in the south and supporting peace in the region.
UNIFIL operates under a mandate that was originally established in 1978, before the Security Council expanded it under Resolution 1701 in 2006. The Security Council had decided in Resolution 2790 to extend the force’s mandate for the last time until December 31, 2026, after which a gradual, orderly and safe withdrawal process would begin within a year.
UNIFIL’s position also comes as the latest report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations on the implementation of Resolution 1701 indicated the continuation of violations and hostilities during the period from February 21 to June 20, 2026, despite the periods of de-escalation that the region witnessed.
