Here’s the translation:
The UN peacekeeping mission operating in the Blue Line of separation between Israel and Lebanon has received unanimous support from the Security Council to extend its mandate until December 31 of next year. However, the recent resolution states that, starting on that date, an “orderly and safe reduction and withdrawal” of mission personnel will begin, in close coordination with the Lebanese government.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), established in 1978, aims primarily to oversee the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the south of the country, and it has played a crucial role in monitoring regional security over the years. Since its inception, the mission’s “blue helmets” have been tasked with implementing Resolution 1701, which ended hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants in 2006.
Since the official conclusion of hostilities last November, which caused significant damage in southern Lebanon, UNIFIL has cooperated with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) to re-establish control over the region. However, the situation remains complex, as Israel maintains its presence in the area, which is considered a violation of Lebanese sovereignty.
The resolution also stipulates that UNIFIL will continue to ensure the protection of UN personnel and will maintain constant monitoring of the situation around its bases and forward positions. Additionally, its work will include protecting civilians and facilitating humanitarian assistance.
Moreover, the UN Secretary-General has been requested to present options for the future implementation of Resolution 1701 by June 1 of next year, with the goal of seeking a definitive end to the hostilities between Israel and militants in Lebanon.
During discussions before the vote, a permanent representative of the United States emphasized the need for Lebanese forces to take greater responsibility in the region, operating without the intervention of UN peacekeeping forces. Meanwhile, France, which led the negotiations for the mandate extension, warned that a hasty withdrawal could undermine the Lebanese government’s efforts in the south, highlighting the ongoing importance of UNIFIL in the region.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
