UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon faced another violent week, with three troops injured in a blast at a UN position on Friday. The incident followed earlier attacks that killed three Indonesian soldiers and wounded three more. A UN spokesperson described the week as “difficult” for personnel serving under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Irish officials, long contributors to the UN mission, expressed deep concern. Taoiseach Micheál Martin called the attacks a “shocking escalation of violence.” Former UN Security head Michael Browne, who served three tours in Lebanon, said the ongoing conflict is “heartbreaking,” warning that the impending end of UNIFIL’s nearly five-decade deployment could leave southern Lebanon vulnerable.
UNIFIL has maintained a continuous presence since 1978, initially to observe Israel’s withdrawal and assist Lebanon in regaining control over its southern territory. Over time, the mission expanded to include humanitarian support and monitoring of the Blue Line separating Lebanon and Israel. Peacekeepers act as deconfliction liaisons between Israel, Lebanon, and Hezbollah, reporting violations and preventing hostilities from spiraling.
The recent violence coincides with mounting tensions in the region. Israel’s offensive follows Hezbollah rocket attacks after US and Israeli strikes on Iran. One million people have reportedly been displaced as the conflict intensifies. Former Chief of Staff of Ireland’s Defence Forces, Vice Admiral Mark Mellett, warned that the Lebanese Armed Forces lack the capacity to counter Hezbollah without substantial international support, raising fears for state stability once UNIFIL departs.
UNIFIL officials emphasise that the force’s mandate has never included disarming Hezbollah. Spokesperson Kandice Ardiel explained that while peacekeepers can observe and report violations, implementing the terms of the Security Council resolution remains the responsibility of Israel and Lebanon. Ardiel highlighted that UNIFIL’s presence has allowed a generation of children to grow up in relative stability from 2006 to 2023, a period difficult to quantify but “truly meaningful.”
Recent attacks have involved both Israeli tank fire and roadside bombs, indicating threats from multiple sides. Troop-contributing nations have raised concerns about deliberate targeting of peacekeepers and UN positions. In a Security Council meeting, diplomats condemned the violence, criticising indiscriminate rocket fire by Hezbollah and Israeli actions described as “aggression” against UN contingents.
The future of southern Lebanon remains uncertain as UNIFIL’s mandate is set to end on December 31, 2026. UN Secretary-General António Guterres is expected to make recommendations to the Security Council by June on the post-UNIFIL scenario. Proposals include potential EU support for the Lebanese Armed Forces, though forming a multinational force with UN backing faces political obstacles at the Security Council.
The recent escalation underscores the fragility of peace in southern Lebanon and the critical role UNIFIL has played. With the mission’s withdrawal approaching, analysts and former officials fear a return to heightened conflict and displacement, leaving local populations exposed amid regional hostilities.
