![]() Each one of the 272 blue barrels that currently mark the line was placed only after complex scrutiny and agreement from both sides. Following the 2006 war, the Blue Line became one of the central elements of Resolution 1701 and since 2007, UNIFIL has worked with the parties to install visual markers – our famous “blue barrels” – showing the precise path of the Blue Line. ![]() The line the UN derived from these maps in 2000 does not always translate to clarity on the physical ground. The Blue Line is based on various historical maps, some going back almost 100 years. Any crossing of the Blue Line by any side constitutes a violation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 and, as UNIFIL, we deal with all violations in the same manner. The Blue Line needs to be respected in its entirety by the parties. In the meantime, UNIFIL is focused on maintaining calm and stability along this fragile frontier and avoiding unnecessary provocations and incidents that may lead to crisis and potentially to a conflict. Ultimately, it is up to Israel and Lebanon to determine the exact path of a future border. This allows UNIFIL to keep authorities on all sides informed, to minimize any misunderstandings that could lead to increased tensions. Whenever Israeli or Lebanese authorities wish to undertake any activities close to the Blue Line, such as maintenance works or security activities, UNIFIL requests that they provide advance notice. ![]() The Blue Line has always been temporary, and UNIFIL peacekeepers are its temporary custodians. It is without prejudice to future border agreements between these two UN member states. It is not a border, but a “line of withdrawal.” It was set by the United Nations in 2000 for the practical purpose of confirming the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the south of Lebanon. The Blue Line, stretching for 120km along Lebanon’s southern frontier, is a key to peace in the region. ![]()
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