In statements to Reuters, the Commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) emphasized ensuring other UN agencies and the Lebanese Armed Forces can assume UNIFIL's tasks before its scheduled withdrawal by year-end. He clarified the necessity of a
smooth transition of responsibilities to alternative entities or a new mission. The Commander pointed out that handing over some UNIFIL positions to Lebanese forces could prove extremely difficult, as over half these sites are currently in Israeli-controlled areas, complicating the
process. He also addressed demolition operations in southern Lebanon, deeming them "another violation" of relevant UN Security Council resolutions concerning Lebanon. While noting that extending UNIFIL's mission is a "great honor," he warned that UN forces would cease operations by year-end if
the Security Council does not issue a new resolution. The UNIFIL Commander stressed the UN's presence in southern Lebanon is "very essential," asserting its importance has grown unprecedentedly at present.
