UNIFIL condemned the move, stating it violates Lebanon's sovereignty and breaches UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which was established to maintain peace following the 2006 Lebanon-Israel conflict.

In a statement released on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), UNIFIL described the situation as dangerous but assured the public that their peacekeeping forces remain stationed in southern Lebanon. The statement emphasized that while UNIFIL is adjusting its operations, contingency plans are in place if the situation escalates further.

"Despite this dangerous development, peacekeepers remain in position. We are regularly adjusting our posture and activities, and we have contingency plans ready to activate if absolutely necessary," read the statement.

UNIFIL reiterated that Israel's actions constitute a violation of Lebanese territorial integrity and are inconsistent with Resolution 1701. The peacekeeping mission called for all parties involved to adhere to international law and to prioritize the protection of civilians and infrastructure.

“Any crossing into Lebanon is in violation of Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a violation of Resolution 1701. Peacekeeper safety and security is paramount, and all actors are reminded of their obligation to respect it,” UNIFIL stated. The UN body urged all sides to step back from further escalations to avoid more bloodshed, underscoring that the cost of ongoing conflict is too high.

With approximately 10,500 peacekeepers from 50 contributing nations, UNIFIL conducts 14,500 monthly operations, many in cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces. Despite increasing tensions, the mission remains committed to maintaining regional stability.

Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari confirmed that Israel has initiated intensive ground operations targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. Since September 23, Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes, with operations intensifying since October 8, when skirmishes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah began.

The Lebanese government reports that since September 17, when Israeli forces first targeted Hezbollah’s communications infrastructure, 1,273 people have been killed, including 104 children and 194 women. The conflict has also resulted in mass displacement, with thousands of civilians fleeing southern Lebanon for Beirut and northern regions, and tens of thousands crossing into Syria to seek refuge.

While Hezbollah continues to launch retaliatory strikes against Israeli military positions, significant damage on the Israeli side has yet to be reported.

UNIFIL's statement concluded with an appeal for all parties to recommit to Security Council Resolution 1701, urging them to prioritize peace and the protection of civilians. "We strongly urge the parties to recommit to Security Council Resolution 1701 as the only viable solution to bring back stability in this region."

As tensions rise in the region, the international community closely monitors the situation, with mounting concern over the humanitarian impact and potential for further escalation. (ILKHA)