UNITED NATIONS: Rhino – The UN Security Council has unanimously adopted a resolution extending the current mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) until August 31, 2025, and demanding the full implementation of its resolution 1701 on the cessation of hostilities by Israel and Hezbollah.

In the resolution adopted today, the Security Council emphasized its strong support for full respect for the Blue Line and a complete cessation of hostilities, noting the goal of a long-term solution based on the principles and elements of Resolution 1701.

The Blue Line, which runs 120 kilometers along Lebanon’s southern border, is a “withdrawal line” established by the United Nations in 2000 to confirm the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon.

In today’s resolution, the Security Council urged all parties concerned to apply immediate de-escalation measures, including to restore calm, restraint and stability across the Blue Line.

The resolution encouraged the UN Secretary-General to ensure that UNIFIL remains ready to adapt its activities to support de-escalation. It emphasized the importance and need for a comprehensive, just and lasting solution in the Middle East based on all relevant Council resolutions.