The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) continues to face significant operational challenges amid the ongoing Israel-Lebanon conflict, according to senior UN officials and regional analysts. Despite difficulties in resupplying isolated positions and heightened security risks, UNIFIL peacekeepers maintain their presence in southern Lebanon under the mandate of the UN Security Council.

A UNIFIL representative emphasized that the peacekeeping force will remain deployed as long as authorized by the Security Council, rejecting claims that Israel is forcing the mission to abandon its bases. However, the representative acknowledged a “lightening of the footprint” in certain locations due to logistical constraints, particularly following the destruction of key infrastructure such as the Qasmieh bridge. This bridge, the last crossing over the Litani River linking southern Lebanon to the rest of the country, has been targeted by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), complicating supply efforts for UNIFIL units.

The operational difficulties were underscored by the deaths of two French peacekeepers in April. The soldiers were reportedly ambushed by Hezbollah militants while attempting to clear an improvised explosive device blocking a resupply route to an isolated UNIFIL position. Hezbollah has denied involvement in the incident. The UNIFIL spokesperson noted that although troop numbers at remote posts have been reduced, this does not equate to a withdrawal, as peacekeepers have not conducted patrols beyond their bases due to security concerns.

Israeli military activity recently intensified, with at least 25 villages in southern Lebanon struck on June 4 alone. The IDF reported targeting around 150 sites described as Hezbollah infrastructure over the following weekend. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz previously confirmed orders to step up demolition of homes in frontline Lebanese villages, drawing parallels to Israeli operations in Gaza’s Rafah and Beit Hanoun areas.

International relations expert Fawaz Gerges of the London School of Economics interpreted these developments as part of a broader Israeli strategy to undermine UNIFIL’s operational capacity and alter the demographic and political landscape in southern Lebanon. He suggested that the goal extends beyond ending the peacekeeping mission to effectively “create a mini-Gaza” by severely damaging local communities.

Gerges cautioned that a diminished UNIFIL presence would reduce international oversight, enabling Israel to conduct military operations with less accountability. He stressed the stabilizing role UNIFIL has historically played in monitoring ceasefire violations and managing tensions, as well as limiting Hezbollah’s freedom of movement in southern Lebanon.

UNIFIL officials noted that despite movement restrictions, the force continues to facilitate communication between the Lebanese and Israeli militaries and coordinates humanitarian aid deliveries, mitigating some risks of further escalation. At the same time, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reaffirmed Beirut’s resolve to defend its territory and highlighted ongoing negotiations with Israel aimed at establishing a long-term peace settlement.

If diplomatic efforts fail, Lebanese authorities are reportedly exploring options to replace or supplement UNIFIL with an alternative security arrangement, potentially involving increased French involvement. Discussions have included meetings between Lebanese officials and French envoys to assess the feasibility of a post-UNIFIL force. The outcome of these efforts remains uncertain amid the complex dynamics on the Israel-Lebanon border.