UN Calls on “Israeli” Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon, Citing Ongoing Destruction Despite Ceasefire

The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) expressed deep concern on Thursday over the “continuing destruction” of infrastructure in southern Lebanon despite a ceasefire that went into effect in late November. UNIFIL called for the “timely withdrawal” of Zionist troops and urged all parties to adhere to UN Resolution 1701, which governs the cessation of hostilities in the region.

The truce, which began on November 27, followed months of intensified Zionist bombing campaigns and a ground incursion into Lebanon, prompted. The agreement stipulated the redeployment of UNIFIL peacekeepers and Lebanese forces in southern Lebanon, with Zionist troops expected to withdraw within 60 days.

UNIFIL’s statement highlighted ongoing damage caused by the “Israeli” Defense Forces (IDF) in residential areas, agricultural lands, and road networks in southern Lebanon, stating that such actions contravene Resolution 1701. The resolution mandates the presence of Lebanese troops and UN peacekeepers as the sole forces in southern Lebanon and requires the withdrawal of Zionist troops from Lebanese territory. The force reiterated its warning that any activities jeopardizing the fragile cessation of hostilities must cease immediately.

Meanwhile, Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) reported significant operations by Zionist forces in the south, including an incursion into the village of Qantara, prompting residents to flee. The NNA also noted Zionist airstrikes in the Baalbek region on Wednesday, far from the border area governed by the ceasefire. UNIFIL has called for “accelerated progress” in implementing the withdrawal of Zionist troops, emphasizing the need for compliance to maintain stability in the region.