Lebanese border villages fear isolation if UNIFIL departs

Residents of the border villages of Rmeish, Dabbel, and Ain Ebel in southern Lebanon are expressing deep concern regarding the potential end of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission. Local leaders fear that the withdrawal of the international force would lead to the isolation of these communities.

Currently, UNIFIL coordinates vehicle convoys to facilitate movement between these villages and cities like Tyre and Beirut under existing security restrictions. Local officials, including Ain Ebel Mayor Ayoub Khreish, noted that the presence of UNIFIL is vital for both physical movement and economic stability.

Beyond logistics, the withdrawal poses a significant economic threat. In Rmeish alone, approximately 85 families rely on steady monthly salaries from UNIFIL employment. Many of these workers are under the age of 55 and have not yet reached retirement age, making the loss of these jobs particularly impactful for local livelihoods.