October 4, 2026
A member of the “Development and Liberation” bloc, MP Qassem Hashem, stressed the importance of the continued work of the international emergency forces operating in southern Lebanon (UNIFIL), whether in its current form or within an alternative international framework, with the end of its current mandate approaching in late 2026, stressing its essential role in keeping pace with the implementation of International Resolution 1701 and monitoring its implementation, in light of the Lebanese adherence to it.
Hashem’s statements came during his reception in the Shebaa region of the Indian ambassador to Beirut, Muhammad Nour Abdul Rahman Sheikh, accompanied by a delegation from the Indian battalion working in UNIFIL and a number of embassy diplomats, in the presence of the mayor of Shebaa, Adam Farhat.
Hashem considered that the international presence under the UN banner remains “more than necessary,” accusing Israel of trying to evade its obligations and continuing its occupation of parts of Lebanese territory. During his address to the Indian delegation, he pointed out that their visit to the most remote points of the southern border allowed them to see the extent of the destruction on the ground, stressing that UNIFIL, especially the Indian battalion, stands as a witness to the developments taking place in the south.
The Lebanese representative called on the international community to assume its responsibilities and put pressure to oblige the parties to respect international laws and resolutions, considering that the full implementation of Resolution 1701 constitutes the basic gateway to controlling stability on the borders.
For his part, the Indian ambassador expressed his regret about what Lebanon was exposed to, stressing the need for international action to support it and stabilize stability by activating international resolutions. He explained that his country’s participation comes within UNIFIL’s missions and a commitment to supporting peace and stability, stressing India’s readiness to continue this role as long as the need arises.
