UNIFIL settles the debate: The Blue Line is the only reference for the UN in southern Lebanon

United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has settled the rising debate over references to new "lines" or "areas" in southern Lebanon, confirming that the Blue Line is the only officially recognized and UN-linked boundary.

UNIFIL stated in a statement on Monday evening that the use of various terms to describe the ground situation in southern Lebanon has increased recently, emphasizing that the Blue Line remains the sole reference point for the United Nations and peacekeeping forces.

The mission explained that the Blue Line was established in 2000 as the "withdrawal line" defined by the United Nations to verify Israel's withdrawal from Lebanese territory.

It confirmed that its forces continue monitoring the Blue Line, tracking developments, and reporting them within their mandate, noting that any Israeli military presence north of the Blue Line constitutes a violation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which UNIFIL monitors and reports.

Conversely, the mission highlighted that it also monitors activities linked to non-state armed groups within its operational area in southern Lebanon and reports them according to its authorized mandate.

UNIFIL stressed that its personnel, drawn from nearly 50 countries, continue carrying out their duties and maintaining a field presence throughout the south through patrols, surveillance, coordination, and support to partners in the humanitarian sector.

It warned that civilians remain the most affected group amid ongoing conflict, facing disrupted daily lives, escalating uncertainty among families, and risks of forced displacement due to security concerns.

The mission emphasized that efforts by peacekeepers to reduce tensions, prevent misjudgment and misunderstanding, and keep communication channels open between parties help mitigate escalation risks, noting that continued instability serves no side.

UNIFIL called on all parties to renew their full commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, cease all violations, and refrain from any provocative actions or steps that could heighten tensions and threaten stability in southern Lebanon.