UNIFIL facing 'serious restrictions' in movement

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) says fighting in the south between Israel and Hizbullah militants is taking a heavy toll on civilians and infrastructure, especially roads and bridges, and hampering its activities. There is serious concern over the humanitarian situation in the south, with civilians stuck in the war zone and supplies unable to reach them. About 300 people have been killed in Lebanon so far, according to the government. Twenty-nine Israelis, including 15 civilians, have died in the ongoing conflict. “UNIFIL is facing serious restrictions in freedom of movement due to hostilities,” said Milos Strugar, senior adviser to UNIFIL. “Lack of a safe passage and heavy destruction of roads and bridges have affected UNIFIL’s ability to carry out all of its activities,” he added. Strugar said UNIFIL’s 2,000 strong force was still in the south - but was not able to patrol the Blue Line, the border demarcation drawn up by the UN, which is part of its mandate. UNIFIL's initial mandate in 1978 had been to confirm the Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon, restore peace and security; and help the Lebanese government reinstate effective authority in the area. Israel occupied Lebanon from 1978 to 2000. The force is made up of soldiers from India, Ghana, France, Italy, Ireland, Poland and Ukraine and on a daily basis its trucks are seen ferrying supplies to officers stationed in various locations of the impoverished south. It was also carrying out some humanitarian work, although not part of its mandate. Through small donations from its various contingents, the force been able to provide mobile medical clinics, equip local schools and offer technical assistance to farmers. UNIFIL, with the Lebanese Army, has established a joint centre to coordinate activities in Tyre. Strugar explained that there had been a heavy exchange of fire in the last 24 hours on the Blue Line with Hizbullah firing rockets from various locations, intensive shelling and Israel counter-attacks. There has been a high number of attacks close to UNIFIL positions, Strugar confirmed. “Yesterday our position in Yarun was hit by two shells, causing extensive damage,” he added. While no deaths have been reported, 36 civilians were taking shelter in the UNIFIL post, most of them women and children. Strugar said other UNIFIL positions in Naqourah, where they are based, had also been hit, causing heavy damage but no deaths. An Indian soldier was seriously injured several days ago. One UNIFIL staff member and spouse are not accounted for in the southern city of Tyre, which was bombed on Monday. A rescue team was dispatched to the location but were unable to reach due to destruction of the roads in the vicinity. Meanwhile, arrangements are being made for evacuating UNIFIL families in Tyre. SZ/MW