UNSC extends Lebanon peacekeeping mission

The UN has extended the mandate of United Nations Interim Force (UNIFIL) in Lebanon till July 31.

Expressing grave concern over the persisting violence along the Israel-Lebanon border, the UN has extended the mandate of United Nations Interim Force (UNIFIL) in Lebanon till July 31.

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While adopting the unanimous Resolution to extend UNIFIL's mandate, which ended on Tuesday, the Council noted the hostilities initiated by the Shiite militia Hezbollah.

The Security Council also took into account the continuing Israeli violations of the Lebanese air space as a "cause for concern."

However, while extending the peacekeeping mission for another six months, the Security Council has emphaised the "interim" nature of the Force, drawn from seven countries including India, and said it was looking forward for the "early fulfillment" of its mandate.

The Council urged Lebanon "to do more" to prevent attacks from Lebanon across the Blue Line, the UN-demarcated border between Lebanon and Israel.

Asking the Secretary General to continue his engagement with the Lebanese government to reinforce its authority in the south, the Council called on Beirut to assert its authority in the sout.

The UN body also asked the government to exert control over the use of force and to maintain law and order on its entire territory.