Ongoing Clashes in Southern Lebanon; UN Warns About Explosive Remnants

Stephan Dujarric, the spokesperson for the United Nations, announced that UNIFIL peacekeeping forces continue to register sporadic clashes and gunfire in southern Lebanon. This situation comes as tensions between Hezbollah and the Israeli army along the Lebanon-Israel border are escalating, with ongoing exchanges of fire in the area. According to Dujarric, UNIFIL is working with the Lebanese army to strengthen the presence of Lebanese forces in the south of the country. So far, the Lebanese army, with UNIFIL's support, has been deployed in over 100 positions between the Litani River and the Blue Line. He also reported the discovery of several hideouts for illegal weapons and ammunition in the area under UNIFIL operations, particularly in the western section, stating that all these findings have been reported to the Lebanese army. The UN spokesperson warned about the danger of unexploded ordnance in southern Lebanon, especially in areas close to the Blue Line, emphasizing that these remnants pose a serious threat to civilians. UNIFIL's mine-clearing forces, in cooperation with Lebanese authorities, are still engaged in clearing these areas. According to published statistics, between October 21, 2024, and February 26, 2025, UNIFIL discovered and destroyed 44 unexploded ordnance and six improvised explosive devices. Dujarric also referred to UNIFIL's role in providing aid to war-torn areas of southern Lebanon, stating that this mission has had a significant impact on the return of refugees and meeting the basic needs of civilians. He noted that since the implementation of the ceasefire, over 60 humanitarian missions have been carried out to assist the local population. He further reported the arrest of 31 individuals in connection with the February 14 attack on a UNIFIL convoy near Beirut Airport, emphasizing that the UN is closely monitoring this case with Lebanese authorities. Dujarric stated, 'It is essential that those responsible for this attack are brought to justice.' This attack targeted the then-deputy commander of UNIFIL and his accompanying team, and the UN is calling for a comprehensive investigation into this matter. Eyal Zamir has taken command of the Israeli army. Pentagon deputy nominee: The Iranian government should not have nuclear weapons. A Hezbollah commander was killed in an Israeli drone attack in southern Lebanon. Defense ministers of the US and Israel: The Iranian government is a threat to regional security.