For over four decades, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has been stationed in southern Lebanon, tasked with monitoring peace between Israel and Lebanon. Despite this long presence, Hezbollah has steadily built up its military infrastructure right under UNIFIL’s watch, raising concerns about the mission’s effectiveness. UNIFIL’s mandate, though well-intentioned, has proven insufficient in addressing the reality on the ground, as Hezbollah continues to expand its influence and military capabilities, including constructing extensive underground bases and tunnels.
Hezbollah’s Underground Network Under UNIFIL’s Watch
One of the most alarming developments during UNIFIL’s tenure is Hezbollah’s construction of underground tunnels and military infrastructure. These tunnels were designed to cross into Israeli territory, enabling Hezbollah to conduct attacks or smuggle arms. In 2018, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) uncovered several such tunnels, exposing the extent of Hezbollah’s military operations. These tunnels were built in areas supposedly monitored by UNIFIL, revealing the limitations of the peacekeepers’ role in enforcing Security Council Resolution 1701, which called for the disarmament of all non-state actors in the region
Despite UNIFIL’s presence, Hezbollah has been able to build and fortify its military positions, often using civilian areas as cover. This includes the construction of bases and tunnels designed for launching attacks on Israel. The discovery of these tunnels shocked the international community and called into question whether UNIFIL could truly fulfill its mandate if such extensive military preparations could occur right under their noses
Increased Hostility and Attacks on UNIFIL
As Hezbollah continues to grow stronger, UNIFIL peacekeepers have found themselves increasingly under attack. Hezbollah operatives have harassed and blocked UNIFIL patrols, denying them access to key areas. In December 2022, an Irish peacekeeper was killed, and several other attacks on peacekeepers have occurred since then. These incidents highlight the dangers UNIFIL faces and the growing challenges of operating in a region where a powerful, well-armed group like Hezbollah can limit their movements
Failure to Enforce the UN Mandate
UNIFIL was deployed to enforce peace and ensure the disarmament of Hezbollah under UN Security Council Resolution 1701. However, Hezbollah’s military build-up continues unchecked. The peacekeepers’ restricted mandate, which primarily allows for observation and reporting, prevents them from taking action against violations. This has allowed Hezbollah to grow into a powerful military force, with thousands of rockets aimed at Israel, while UNIFIL watches from the sidelines
Criticism from All Sides
UNIFIL faces criticism from both Israel and Hezbollah, albeit for different reasons. Israel believes that UNIFIL has been ineffective in preventing Hezbollah’s military expansion, especially the construction of the tunnels. Meanwhile, Hezbollah accuses UNIFIL of being aligned with Israeli interests, often using propaganda to discredit the peacekeepers. This dual criticism weakens UNIFIL’s position and its ability to operate as a neutral force in the region
The Need for a More Proactive Force
Given these challenges, there is a growing consensus that UNIFIL’s mandate is outdated and ineffective. Some propose replacing UNIFIL with a more proactive military force, such as NATO, which could have the enforcement capabilities needed to address Hezbollah’s activities directly. However, any replacement must be handled carefully to avoid further escalating tensions with Hezbollah, Iran, and Syria
UNIFIL’s long presence in southern Lebanon, while initially intended to stabilize the region, has proven ineffective in preventing Hezbollah’s military expansion, including the construction of underground bases and tunnels. With growing hostility towards the peacekeepers and the failure to enforce its mandate, it is clear that UNIFIL must either be replaced or significantly restructured. A more robust, proactive force is needed to ensure the safety and security of the region and to prevent Hezbollah from continuing to operate unchecked.
