Amid the continued presence and military activities of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in certain areas north of the Blue Line, UNIFIL peacekeepers in Sector West have assisted dozens of farmers, including approximately 20 in the village of Marwahin, in accessing their land and agricultural assets near the Blue Line.
These humanitarian efforts have been made possible by UNIFIL’s coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and the IDF.
The support initiative in Marwahin on 22 May follows request from the Mayor of Marwahin, Mohamed Gannam, who highlighted “severe difficulties” faced by the local farmers due to the IDF presence and activities in violation of Security Council resolution 1701.
The Mayor pointed out that many farmers have been unable to safely return to their land and resume agricultural work.
To facilitate access, UNIFIL’s Sector West Command conducted joint patrols with the LAF to ensure the necessary security conditions were in place for farmers to reach their land and agricultural equipment.
“These operations are a testament to the mission’s ongoing commitment to promoting stability, security, and civil-military cooperation in the area of operations,” said Brigadier General Nicola Mandolesi, Commander of UNIFIL Sector West.
UNIFIL peacekeepers in Sector West have previously supported local farmers in similar efforts, including the transfer of livestock from Wadi Qatmon to Rmeish (19 March), inspection of civilian olive groves in Rmeish (22 April and 2 May), and avocado harvesting in Ramya and Salhani (20–23 May).