Tensions have escalated in recent days between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the UN mission UNIFIL in South Lebanon. The IDF has opened fire on some UNIFIL posts, prompting strong protests from the governments of Italy, France and Spain, the main contributors to the mission.
Israel, engaged in a campaign to eliminate the threat from Hezbollah, views UNIFIL's work as ineffective in containing militant groups in the area, fueling a growing climate of mistrust toward the UN.
UNIFIL seeks to maintain a neutral position and act as an interposition force to stem the escalation of violence between Israel and Hezbollah in South Lebanon, but often finds itself limited in its use of force.
What will the current Israeli strategy lead to: a new order or a new disorder?
Is it realistic that Hamas and Hezbollah can truly be eradicated forever?
What is the role and what are the prospects of the mission?
How has UNIFIL changed in 46 years?
Has UNIFIL failed or been unable/unwilling to fulfil its mandate?
We will discuss it today at 1800 pm together with the general Antonio Li Gobbi e Roberta La Fortezza, Intelligence and Security Analyst for the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region.
