Source: UN
Subject: International Relations/Mapping
Context: The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) temporarily suspended patrols along parts of the Blue Line after Israel announced the release of a chemical substance near the frontier.
About Blue Line along the Lebanon–Israel frontier:
What is the Blue Line?
- The Blue Line is a UN-identified line of withdrawal, marking Israel’s pullback from southern Lebanon.
- It is not an international border, but a temporary demarcation used to monitor compliance with UN resolutions.
Located in:
- Runs for about 120 km along southern Lebanon, separating it from Israel and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.
- Extends from the Mediterranean coast near Naqoura/Rosh HaNikra to the tri-junction area near Shebaa Farms.
Origin and history:
- 1978: UN Security Council adopted Resolutions 425 and 426 after Israel’s invasion of Lebanon, creating UNIFIL.
- 2000: Following Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon, the United Nations delineated the Blue Line to verify compliance.
- Both Israel and Lebanon agreed to respect the line, while maintaining that it does not prejudice final border negotiations.
Key features:
- Temporary and technical line: Designed solely to confirm Israeli withdrawal, not to settle sovereignty claims.
- UN custodianship: Monitored and supervised by UNIFIL in coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces.
- Sensitive zones: Includes disputed areas such as Shebaa Farms, Ghajar village, and Kfarchouba hills.
- Frequent violations: Aerial overflights, cross-border fire, and construction activities are regularly flagged by the UN.
- Security architecture: Israel has constructed a border barrier/fence along much of the line to prevent infiltration.
Significance:
- Regional stability: Central to preventing escalation between Israel and Hezbollah.
- UN peacekeeping mandate: Core operational area for UNIFIL under Resolution 1701.
- Civilian protection: Stability along the Blue Line is vital for the return of displaced residents and livelihoods.
