On August 31, the UN Security Council unanimously passed the resolution 2650 which extends the UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) mandate for one year.
However, the resolution included certain items which give the UNIFIL troops the right to act on the ground away from the Lebanese army, which contradicts with 1701 issued after 2006 war.
The new resolution also stipulates that the UNIFIL forces can erect checkpoints, raid houses, arrest locals, and engage in clashes with civilians.
The strategic expert, General Amin Hoteit, told Al-Manar TV that 2650 Resolution turns UNIFIL into an occupation force in Southern Lebanon.
On September 7, the Lebanese Foreign ministry issued a statement which rejected the 2650 Resolution wording. Meanwhile, General Hoteit considered that this statement is not enough.
Source: Al-Manar English Website
