UNIFIL: “We renew our call on the Israel Defense Forces to respect the agreed arrangements and ensure the freedom of movement of peacekeeping forces”

UNIFIL peacekeeping forces issued a statement regarding the obstruction of logistical movements, saying:

Yesterday afternoon, the Israel Defense Forces stopped a routine convoy transporting military and civilian peacekeepers, along with essential contractors, coming from Beirut to UNIFIL headquarters, just a few kilometers from its destination in Naqoura.

The vehicles bearing United Nations markings were ultimately allowed to pass, but the local contractors were asked to return to Beirut under security arrangements, even though the convoy had been fully coordinated in advance, including the presence of the local contractors.

This is not an isolated incident. Similar restrictions, whether through roadblocks or the cancellation of prior clearances, have affected peacekeepers and the essential personnel who support them. These measures raise concerns about the timely delivery of vital supplies, including food, fuel, and water, to UNIFIL positions, particularly along the Blue Line.

While these challenges have been managed so far, the continued restrictions on movement threaten the sustainability of operations, including the ability of peacekeepers to report, within their mandate, on violations of Resolution 1701.

We renew our call on the Israel Defense Forces to respect the agreed arrangements and fulfill their obligations to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers, as well as the freedom of movement of all UNIFIL patrols and logistical convoys.”