Official UNIFIL statements or reports confirming new measures

Footage Shows Chinese UNIFIL Troops Observing Hezbollah Rocket Launches Near UN Base

Oct 20, 2024, 07:38 PM

Recent reports and footage have surfaced suggesting that the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is failing to prevent Hezbollah's military activities near its bases in southern Lebanon. Footage shows troops from the 22nd Chinese UNIFIL peacekeeping force observing and filming Hezbollah militants as they launch rockets into Israel from locations adjacent to UNIFIL camps. Former UN peacekeepers have revealed that Hezbollah controls the movement and operations of UNIFIL forces, with one stating, 'We were completely at the mercy of Hezbollah.' They report that their freedom of movement was severely restricted and that they never operated after dark due to fear of Hezbollah, allowing the militant group free rein during evening and night hours. Additionally, reports indicate that captured Hezbollah members have alleged the group paid UNIFIL staff to use their positions, and have taken control of UNIFIL cameras near the border to target the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). UNIFIL has been criticized for its reluctance to enforce United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for the disarmament of armed groups in Lebanon. Despite increasing tensions and attacks on its premises, UNIFIL asserts, 'We are staying,' and remains in the region amid ongoing conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah.