Since mid-June 2026, violence in south Lebanon has significantly decreased, allowing UN peacekeepers to return to their core functions such as protecting humanitarian aid and restoring essential infrastructure as families continue to return to their homes. Many returning families have found their villages destroyed, prompting UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeepers to facilitate humanitarian assistance by ensuring safe passage for aid convoys and supporting the restoration of healthcare and water services.

UNIFIL’s mandate, established by Security Council Resolution 1701, aims to end hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel following the 2006 conflict, support Lebanese armed forces against Hezbollah militants, ensure humanitarian access, and secure Lebanon’s border along the Blue Line. Despite a relative decrease in hostilities, UNIFIL has recorded dozens of projectiles in recent days.

UNIFIL spokesperson Kandice Ardiel stated, “The welcome reduction in violence allows our peacekeepers to do more of what we are here to do.” On Wednesday, the Lebanese Armed Forces successfully neutralized several ordnances discovered by UNIFIL peacekeepers, according to UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.

Since 8 October 2023, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has accused both sides of violating Resolution 1701. Meanwhile, Israel and the Lebanese Government have engaged in peace talks since June 2026. UNIFIL continues to urge all parties to comply with the resolution, emphasizing that peacekeepers work alongside local authorities and communities to support recovery, reduce risks, and contribute to long-term stability in south Lebanon.

Sources