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UNIFIL Criticized for Failing to Disarm Hezbollah, Allowing 200,000 Missiles and Rocket Attacks on Israel

Oct 13, 2024, 04:09 PM

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has been criticized for failing to fulfill its mandate to disarm Hezbollah, as stipulated by UN Resolutions 1701 and 1559. Since the end of the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war, Hezbollah has reportedly built fortified underground bunkers and amassed a significant arsenal of weapons, including over 200,000 missiles, near UNIFIL posts in southern Lebanon. Despite being stationed in close proximity to these military installations, UNIFIL has been accused of turning a blind eye to Hezbollah's activities, allowing the militant group to continue its operations unimpeded. This has led to increased tensions and rocket attacks on Israeli communities, with over 9,000 rockets and UAVs fired since October 8, 2023. Critics argue that UNIFIL's inaction has effectively made its personnel human shields for Hezbollah, further complicating the security situation in the region. Journalist Doron Kadosh has reported on the proximity of Hezbollah's military infrastructure to UNIFIL bases. UNIFIL has received more than $2.6 billion in funding.