Tension rose during the past few days between United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and southern residents following events described by observers as “normal” and “repeated as often.”
Sources told Asharq Al-Awsat that the Lebanese Army is keen on keeping calm and preventing any escalation in the area.
On Tuesday, residents of Mays al-Jabal said they are bothered by a UNIFIL observation point in al-Mufaylaha.
A statement issued by the residents said they are disturbed by the sound of electricity generators, the loud music and the barking of predatory strayed dogs that attack houses and children and ravages crops.
The residents warned of taking escalatory measures if UNIFIL does not settle the situation.
On Monday, a dispute took place between UNIFIL troops and residents of Blida after a military vehicle of the Finish peacekeeping force hit two cars and a motorcycle while passing in the town.
The Blida municipality demanded UNIFIL to conduct an investigation into the accident and punish the perpetrators.
It announced a decision to freeze all activities and meetings with UNIFIL troops until the inquiry is completed.
UNIFIL spokesman Andrea Tenenti commented on the dispute, saying: “We are examining the accident. UNIFIL’s Force Commander opened an inquiry in coordination with the Lebanese Army.”
The sources said the Lebanese Army is continuously following up on the situation in the south and is keen on protecting the good relation between UNIFIL and southern residents.
Last February, a dispute occurred between the French UN peacekeeping forces and residents of Braasheet in the district of Bint Jbeil, south of Lebanon.
The incident took place after the French UNIFIL troops entered and took pictures at the town of Braasheet without being accompanied by the Lebanese Army, which triggered a reaction by the Bint Jbeil residents.
