Andréa Tanenti, the official spokesperson for UNIFIL, confirmed that there will be no changes to the work of international peacekeeping forces on the ground following the extension of their mission. The partnership with the Lebanese Army will remain, and the coordination that began in 2006 will continue. In an interview with the "Lebanese Scene" program on Al-Hurra TV, Tanenti noted that the Security Council extended the UNIFIL mission, but they will operate according to the same principles as Resolution 1701, stating: "Nothing has changed; we continue our cooperation and coordination with the Lebanese government and the Lebanese Army; I do not think our mission in the south has changed. The language used in 2006 is the same that was used this year during the extension."
Tanenti emphasized that any crime against peacekeeping personnel is a crime against the United Nations, considering that peacekeepers operate in a 100% unsafe area, which is why they are there and wish to continue their work. He stated that freedom of movement must be guaranteed by the Lebanese government, saying: "We will continue despite the horrific crimes committed against our personnel."
Regarding the containers and tents on the Lebanese border, Tanenti viewed the matter as concerning for them and for Resolution 1701, adding: "The tents are a violation, and we are working to remove them." He pointed out that the main issue is to monitor the Blue Line and reduce tension and escalation, as they do in Kfarshouba.
Tanenti stressed to the "Lebanese Scene" program the importance of freedom of movement as essential for carrying out their tasks, indicating that their activities are not solely military operations, but also humanitarian efforts. He described their partnership with the Lebanese Army and government as significant, given that UNIFIL's presence in Lebanon is at their request. Tanenti stated: "There is a misunderstanding regarding the resolution; we closely coordinate with the Lebanese government, and this has not changed. It is important to note that everything we do is in accordance with a request from the Lebanese government and respects Lebanese sovereignty."
In response to a question about Hezbollah's positions, Tanenti said: "I will not comment on statements from individuals or political parties. Prime Minister Mikati had a positive stance regarding the extension of UNIFIL, and there is a difference between rhetoric and reality. The reality on the ground is that despite the isolated incidents we have witnessed in the past and even in the present with the major activities we undertake, the relationship has always been good, and most activities occur without any problems. I want to differentiate between the rhetoric and the reality on the ground. Once again, respecting Lebanon's sovereignty is fundamental, as is working with the Lebanese government."
