Lebanon War: 1978-2007

On March 11, 1978, a terrorist attack against two Israeli buses near Tel-Aviv by Palestinian groups based in Lebanon killed thirty-seven Israelis and injured an additional seventy-six.

During this period, the large number of Palestinians in Lebanon had begun to function as a state within a state. Armed Palestinians operated outside the control of Lebanese authorities, threatening the stability of both Israel and Lebanon. War broke out between the two states on June 5, 1982, when Palestinian extremists led by Abu Nidal made an assassination attempt on Israeli Ambassador Shlomo Argov in London. This incident, combined with PLO shelling, became the pretext for Israel’s “Operation Peace for Galilee,” an invasion of Lebanon launched under the direction of Defense Minister Ariel Sharon. Its declared purpose was the creation of a forty-kilometer security zone in southern Lebanon. By June 13, however, Israeli forces had passed the forty-kilometer line and laid siege to the city of Beirut.

After intervention on the part of the United States, a cease-fire was accepted that came into effect on August 12, 1982. Subsequently, U.S. Ambassador Phillip Habib negotiated a peaceful PLO withdrawal from Lebanon under the supervision of a multinational force.

On the evening of September 16, 1982, Lebanese Phalangists entered the Sabra and Shatila Palestinian refugee camps, killing an estimated 800 inhabitants. Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin failed to acknowledge the significance of the incident until a large- scale demonstration in Tel Aviv demanded an independent inquiry into Israel’s role in the massacre. Within days, Israeli troops left West Beirut. Subsequently, the specially formed Kahan Committee, chaired by Israeli Supreme Court Chief Justice Yitzhak Kahan, issued a report on the massacre. Defense Minister Ariel Sharon drew the principal condemnation for allowing Lebanese Phalangists operating under IDF control into the camps. As Sharon declined to resign, Begin was forced to dismiss him. Begin, who was also cited in the report, resigned in September 1983.

A month later, suicide car bombers attacked the bases ofthe multinational forces in Lebanon, killing seventy-eight French troops and 241 U.S. marines. On February 8, 1984, United States President Ronald Reagan announced the planned withdrawal of marines from Lebanon.

In June 1985, Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres ordered a unilateral withdrawal of most Israeli troops from Lebanon, leaving only a small residual force and an Israeli-supported Lebanese militia in a “security zone.” On May 22, 2000, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak decided unilaterally to withdraw all Israeli troops from Lebanon, ending its twenty- two-year military presence.

i. Pre-War Developments

Document 227: United Nations Security Council Resolution 425, Calling upon Israel to Immediately Cease Its Military Action against Lebanon (March 19, 1978) [S.C. Res. 425, U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/RES/425 (1978)]. In Resolution 425, the Security Council decides, in light of a request from the Lebanese government, to establish immediately an interim force in Lebanon for the purpose of confirming the withdrawal of Israeli forces, restoring international peace and security, and assisting the government of Lebanon in ensuring the return of its effective authority in the area.

Document 228: United Nations Security Council Resolution 426, Establishing a United Nations Interim Force for Southern Lebanon (March 19, 1978) [S.C. Res. 426, U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/RES/426 (1978)]. Passed on the same day as Security Council Resolution 425, this resolution makes effective the establishment of the UNIFIL.

Document 229: United Nations Security Council Resolution 427, Approving the Increase in the Strength of the UNIFIL to Approximately 6,000 (May 3, 1978) [S.C. Res. 427, U.N. SCOR, 2076th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/427 (1978)]. In Resolution 427, the Security Council approves the increase in the strength of the UNIFIL from 4,000 to approximately 6,000 troops. Taking note of the partial withdrawal of Israeli forces, the Security Council calls upon Israel to complete its withdrawal from all Lebanese territory without any further delay. Finally, the Security Council deplores attacks on the UNIFIL and demands full respect for the UNIFIL from all parties in Lebanon.

Document 230: United Nations Security Council Resolution 434, Expressing Grave Concern about the Situation in Lebanon (September18, 1978) [S.C. Res. 434, U.N. SCOR, 2079th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/434 (1978)]. In this resolution, the Security Council expresses its grave concern at the serious conditions in Lebanon and commends the outstanding performance of the UNIFIL in carrying out its mandate. However, it notes with concern that UNIFIL has encountered obstacles in deploying freely throughout its area of operation.

Document 231: United Nations Security Council Resolution 436, Noting with Grave Concern the Deteriorating Situation in Beirut (October 6, 1978) [S.C. Res. 436, U.N. SCOR, 2089th mtg. U.N. Doc. S/RES/436 (1978)]. Security Council Resolution 436 notes with grave concern the deteriorating situation in Beirut and its environs and the consequent loss of life, human suffering, and physical destruction. It calls for an immediate and effective cease-fire and a cessation of hostilities. Further, it calls upon all concerned parties to allow units of the ICRC into the area of conflict to provide humanitarian assistance.

Document 232: United Nations Security Council Resolution 444, Deploring the Lack of Cooperation with UNIFILEfforts (January 19, 1979) [S.C. Res. 444, U.N. SCOR, 2113th mtg. U.N. Doc. S/RES/444 (1979)]. Security Council Resolution 444 expresses concern over the grave situation in southern Lebanon and reiterates its conviction that its continuation poses a challenge to the authority of the Security Council. It deplores the lack of cooperation with the UNIFIL, in particular Israel’s assistance to irregular armed groups operating in the area. It expresses its satisfaction with efforts by the Government of Lebanon to deploy in the south and encourages it to increase these efforts in coordination with UNIFIL. It also urges all United Nations member states to bring their influence to bear on those concerned so that UNIFIL can carry out its full responsibilities.

Document 233: United Nations Security Council Resolution 450, Calling upon Israel to Cease Its Acts against the Territorial Integrity, Unity, Sovereignty, and Political Independence of Lebanon (June 14, 1979) [S.C. Res. 450, U.N. SCOR, 2149th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/ RES/450 (1979)]. Acting in response to a request from the Lebanese government and noting its concerns, the Security Council, in Resolution 450, affirms its call for respect for the territorial integrity, unity, sovereignty, and political independence of Lebanon within its internationally recognized boundaries.

Document 234: United Nations Security Council Resolution 459, Expressing Anxiety about the Existence of Obstacles to the Full Deployment of UNIFIL (December 19, 1979) [S.C. Res. 459, U.N. SCOR, 2180th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/459 (1979)]. In extending the mandate of the UNIFIL, the Security Council in Resolution 459 notes with concern the continued violations of the cease-fire, the attacks on UNIFIL, and the difficulty in implementing past resolutions. It also expresses its anxiety about threats to UNIFIL’s existence, its freedom of movement, and the safety of its headquarters. The Security Council takes note of the government of Lebanon’s determination to draft a program of action in consultation with the Secretary-General to promote the restoration of its authority.

Document 235: United Nations Security Council Resolution 467, Deploring All Acts of Interference with the UNTSO and All Acts of Hostility against UNIFIL (April 24, 1980) [S.C. Res. 467, U.N. SCOR, 2218th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/467 (1979)]. In Resolution 467, the Security Council underscores its support for the work of the UNIFIL and condemns all actions contrary to Security Council Resolutions 425, 426, and 459, including Israel’s military intervention into Lebanon, violations of the Israel-Lebanon Armistice Agreement, interference with the UNTSO, and all acts of hostility against UNIFIL. The Security Council condemns the deliberate shelling of UNIFIL’s headquarters and commends the Secretary-General’s efforts to bring about a cessation of hostilities.

Document 236: United Nations Security Council Resolution 488, Recalling the Terms of Reference and GeneralGuidelines ofUNIFIL (June 19, 1981) [S.C. Res. 488, U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/RES/488 (1981)]. Extending the mandate of the UNIFIL, the Security Council in Resolution 488 recalls the terms of reference and general guidelines for UNIFIL due to continued obstacles to its full deployment, “causing death, injury and destruction to the civilian population as well as among the peace-keeping force.” The Security Council supports the efforts of the government of Lebanon to rehabilitate and reconstruct southern Lebanon, in particular the deployment of substantial contingents of the Lebanese Army in UNIFIL’s area of operation.

Document 237: United Nations Security Council Resolution 490, Calling for the Immediate Cessation of All Armed Attacks (July 21, 1981) [S.C. Res. 490, U.N. SCOR, 2293d mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/490 (1981)]. Concerned at the heightened state of violence, the Security Council in Resolution 490 calls for an immediate cessation of all armed attacks and requests the Secretary-General to report back on the implementation of this resolution within forty-eight hours.

Document 238: United Nations Security Council Resolution 498, Calling upon Israel to Withdraw Its Forces from Lebanese Territory (December 18, 1981) [S.C. Res. 498, U.N. SCOR, 2320th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/498 (1981)]. United Nations Security Council Resolution 498 reaffirms its previous calls for the territorial integrity of Lebanon, Israel’s withdrawal from all Lebanese territory, and the need for an international peace-keeping force in the area to ensure the return of the government of Lebanon’s authority. It calls upon all concerned parties to work toward the consolidation of a cease-fire. It also renews the mandate of the UNIFIL for another six months.

Document 239: United Nations Security Council Resolution 501, Approving the Immediate Increase in the Strength of UNIFIL (February 25, 1982) [S.C. Res. 501, U.N. SCOR, 2332d mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/501 (1982)]. In Resolution 501, the Security Council, gravely concerned at the deterioration of the situation in the Middle East and its consequences to the maintenance of international peace, decides to approve the immediate increase in the strength of the UNIFIL recommended by the Secretary-General from approximately 6,000 to approximately 7,000 troops. The Security Council also requests the Secretary-General to continue discussions with the government of Lebanon and other parties on a program of action for achieving further progress.

Document 240: United Nations Security Council Resolution 508, Calling for a Cease-Fire at the Lebanese-Israeli Border (June 5, 1982) [S.C. Res. 508, U.N. SCOR, 2374th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/508 (1982)]. The Security Council adopted Resolution 508 in response to Israel’s invasion of Lebanon. In it, the Security Council calls upon all parties to immediately and simultaneously cease all military activities within Lebanon and across the Lebanese-Israeli border.

ii. 1982 War (1982-1983)

Document 241: United Nations Security Council Resolution 509, Demanding that Israel Withdraw Its Forces from Lebanon (June 6, 1982) [S.C. Res. 509, U.N. SCOR, 2375 th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/508 (1982)]. In Resolution 509, the Security Council demands the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon and reaffirms the need for strict respect for the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and political independence of Lebanon within its internationally recognized boundaries.

Document 242: United Nations Security Council Resolution 511, Authorizing UNIFIL to Carry Out Interim Tasks (June 18, 1982) [S.C. Res. 511, U.N. SCOR, 2379th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/511 (1982)]. In Resolution 511, the Security Council decides to extend the mandate of the UNIFIL for two months as an interim measure, bearing in mind the need to avoid developments that could aggravate the situation. The Security Council authorizes UNIFIL during that period to carry out interim tasks and calls on all concerned to fully cooperate with UNIFIL in the discharge of these duties.

Document 243: United Nations Security Council Resolution 512, Calling on All Parties to Respect the Rights of the Lebanese and Palestinian Civilian Populations and Facilitate Humanitarian ReliefEfforts (June 19, 1982) [S.C. Res. 512, U.N. SCOR, 2380th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/512 (1982)]. The Security Council in Resolution 512 calls upon all parties to the conflict to respect the rights of the civilian populations, refrain from violence, and take appropriate measures to alleviate suffering caused by the conflict. The Security Council further stresses the humanitarian responsibilities of the United Nations and its agencies.

Document 244: United Nations General Assembly Resolution ES-7/5, Condemning Israeli Invasion of Lebanon and Calling for Cessation of Military Activity (June 26, 1982) [S.C. Res. ES-7/5, U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. A/RES/ES-7/5 (1982)]. In Resolution ES- 7/5, the General Assembly notes with regret that the Security Council has failed to take measures to ensure implementation of Resolutions 508 and 509 and demands that Israel withdraw unconditionally to the internationally recognized boundaries of Lebanon.

Document 245: United Nations Security Council Resolution 513, Calling for Respect for the Rights of Palestinians in West Beirut and South Lebanon (July 4, 1982) [S.C. Res. 513, U.N. SCOR, 2382d mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/513 (1982)]. In Resolution 513, the Security Council expresses alarm over the continued suffering of civilian populations in south Lebanon and in west Beirut. The Security Council calls for respect for the rights of the civilian populations without any discrimination and repudiates all acts of violence against these populations. The Security Council further calls for the restoration of the normal supply of vital facilities such as water, electricity, food, and medical provisions, particularly in Beirut.

Document 246: United Nations Security Council Resolution 515, Demanding that Israel Lift the Blockade of the City of Beirut. (July 29, 1982) [S.C. Res. 515, U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/RES/515 (1982)]. In Resolution 515, the Security Council, deeply concerned at the situation of the civilian population of Beirut, demands that Israel immediately lift its blockade of Beirut to permit the dispatch of supplies to meet the urgent needs of the civilian population and allow the distribution of aid.

Document 247: United Nations Security Council Resolution 516, Authorizing the Secretary-General to Deploy a United Nations Observer to Monitor the Situation in and around Beirut (August 1, 1982) [S.C. Res. 516, U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/RES/516 (1982)]. In Resolution 516, the Security Council, alarmed by the continuation and intensification of military activities in and around Beirut, demands an immediate cease-fire and a cessation of all military activities within Lebanon and across the Lebanese-Israeli border. It also authorizes the Secretary-General to immediately deploy United Nations observers to monitor the situation in and around Beirut at the request of the Government of Lebanon.

Document 248: United Nations Security Council Resolution 517, Expressing Shock at the Israeli Invasion of Beirut and Callingfor a Withdrawal (August 4, 1982) [S.C. Res. 517, U.N. SCOR, 2389th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/517 (1982)]. In Resolution 517, the Security Council expresses its shock and alarm over the deplorable consequences of the Israeli invasion of Beirut and demands an immediate cease-fire and withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon.

Document 249: U.S.-Vetoed Security Council Draft Resolution s/15347/Rev.1, Calling on Member States to Refrain from Military Aid to Israel Pending Withdrawal from Lebanon (August 6, 1982) [U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. s/15347/Rev.1 (1982)]. The United States vetoed this Security Council draft resolution submitted by the of Soviet Union, which decides that, in order to carry out the decisions of the Security Council, all state members of the United Nations should refrain from supplying Israel with weapons and from providing it with any military aid until the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from all Lebanese territory is effected. The final vote was eleven states in favor, United States veto, and three abstentions: Togo, United Kingdom, Zaire.

Document 250: Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin: The Wars of No Alternative and Operation Peace for the Galilee (August 8, 1982) [reprinted in The Israel-Arab Reader: A Documentary History of the Middle East Conflict (Walter Laqueur & Barry Rubin eds., 2001)]. Begin delivered this speech at the National Defense College in Israel to describe the manner in which Israel was justified in its attacks during the first Lebanon War. The speech focuses on how, unlike the Yom Kippur War, this was not a “war of no alternative,” but Israel was still entitled to act in order to prevent a costlier war where Israel must fight for its very survival.

Document 251: United Nations Security Council Resolution 518, Demanding the Immediate Lifting of All Restrictions on the City of Beirut (August 12, 1982) [S.C. Res. 518, U.N. SCOR, 2392d mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/518 (1982)]. In its sixth resolution issued in two months on the Lebanon invasion, the Security Council demands that Israel and all parties to the conflict strictly observe the terms of Security Council resolutions relevant to the immediate cessation of all military activities within Lebanon and, particularly, in and around Beirut. It also demands the immediate lifting of all restrictions on the city of Beirut in order to permit the free entry of supplies to meet the urgent needs of the civilian population. In regard to United Nations observers in the area, the Security Council demands that Israel cooperate fully in securing their effective deployment, as requested by the Government of Lebanon, and in such a manner as to ensure their safety.

Document 252: Final Declaration of the Twelfth Arab Summit Conference, Adopted at Fez (September 9, 1982) [U.N. SCOR, 37th Sess., Annex, Agenda Items 31, 34, 58, and 134, U.N. Doc. A/37/696*-S/15510 (1982)]. In this text, the Twelfth Arab Summit Conference declares its strong condemnation of the Israeli aggression against the people and territory of Lebanon and against the Palestinian people. It draws the attention of international public opinion to the seriousness of the aggression and its consequences for the stability and security of the region. The member states reaffirm their solidarity with Lebanon and their readiness to provide any assistance requested by Lebanon.

Document 253: United Nations Security Council Resolution 520, Condemning the Murder of Lebanese President Bashir Gemayel (September 17, 1982) [S.C. Res. 520, U.N. SCOR, 2396th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/520 (1982)]. In Resolution 520, the Security Council condemns the murder of Lebanon’s president-elect, Bashir Gemayel, and efforts to disrupt the restoration of a strong, stable government in Lebanon.

Document 254: United Nations Security Council Resolution 521, Condemningthe Massacre of Palestinian Civilians in Beirut (September 19, 1982) [S.C. Res. 521, U.N. SCOR, 2396th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/521 (1982)]. In Resolution 521, the Security Council condemns the massacre of Palestinian civilians in Sabra and Shattila. The Security Council reaffirms Resolutions 512 and 513, which call for respect for the rights of civilian populations without any discrimination, and repudiates acts of violence against them. The Security Council requests the Secretary-General to initiate appropriate consultations, in particular with the government of Lebanon, on additional steps (including the possible deployment of United Nations forces) to assist in ensuring full protection for the civilian populations in and around Beirut.

Document 255: United Nations Security Council Resolution 523, Insisting UNIFIL Shall Have Full Freedom of Movement (October 18, 1982) [S.C. Res. 523, U.N. SCOR, 2400th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/523 (1982)]. United Nations Security Council Resolution 523 insists that there will be no interference with the operations of the UNIFIL and that UNIFIL will have full freedom of movement in the discharge of its mandate. It extends the mandate for an interim period of three months.

Document 256: United Nations General Assembly Resolution 37/134, Condemning Israel for Its Invasion of Lebanon and Attempting to Secure Assistance to the Palestinian People (December 17, 1982) [G.A. Res. 37/134, U.N. GAOR, U.N. Doc. A/RES/37/134 (1982)]. Expressing its deep alarm at the Israeli invasion of Lebanon and horrified by the Sabra and Shatila massacre, the General Assembly, in Resolution 37/134, notes with concern the dire need of the victims for urgent humanitarian assistance and the need to provide economic and social assistance to the Palestinian people. The General Assembly calls upon governments and relevant United Nations bodies to provide such assistance to the victims.

Document 257: Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Events at the Refugee Camps in Beirut (Kahan Report) (February 8, 1983) [available at http://www.mfa. gov.il/mfa/foreign+relations/israels+foreign+relations+since+1947/1982- 1984/104+ report+ of+the+commission+of+inquiry+into+the+e.htm]. Following reports of massacres at Sabra and Shatila, the government of Israel established a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the facts and factors connected with the atrocity. Subsequently, the president of the Israeli Supreme Court appointed a commission to investigate the incident comprised of: Yitzhak Kahan, president of the Supreme Court (as chairman); Aharon Barak, justice of the Supreme Court; and Yona Efrat, major general (Res.). The Commission of Inquiry (later known as the Kahan Commission) found that the evidence indicated that the massacre was perpetrated by Lebanese forces known as Phalangists or Ketaib. Although it assigned direct responsibility for the events to the Phalangists, the commission reports that the danger of a massacre should have been foreseen if the Phalangists were to enter the camps without protective measures to guarantee the safety of the residents. The commission evaluates the relative responsibility of nine major Israeli authorities, including: the prime minister, Menachem Begin; the minister of defense, Ariel Sharon; and the foreign minister, Yitzhak Shamir. The commission recommends that the defense minister resign, the director of military intelligence not continue in his post, and other senior officers be removed.

Document 258: Draft Agreement between Israel and Lebanon (May 17, 1983) [available at http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/Foreign%20Relations/Israels%20Foreign%20Rela tions%20since%201947/1982-1984/114%20Agreement%20between%20Israel %20and%20Lebanon-%2017%20May%201]. Two separate ceremonies marked the signing of the Israel-Lebanon Draft Agreement. Arabic and French copies of the agreement were signed in Khalde, Lebanon, by Mr. Antoine Fattal for Lebanon and Dr. David Kimche for Israel, and witnessed by U.S. Ambassador Morris Draper. Later, Hebrew and English versions were signed in Kiryat Shmona, Israel. The agreement contains provisions for ending the state of war between Israel and Lebanon, supervising a treaty, Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon and security coordination, and establishing an Israeli mission in Beirut. The Lebanese government never ratified the agreement.

Document 259: Statements by Director General David Kimche of the Israeli Foreign Ministry Regarding the Israel-Lebanon Agreement (May 17, 1983) [available at http://www.mfa. gove.il/MFA/Israels%20Foreign%20Relations%20since%201947/1982-1984/115 %20Statements%20by%20Director%20General%20Kimche%20at%20the%20t]. In this statement given after the signature of the draft agreement between Israel and Lebanon, Director General David Kimche declares that the agreement marks a new chapter in Israel and Lebanon’s history, though there are still obstacles to overcome and groups who would like to render the agreement meaningless. Kimche declares that the Lebanese people are in favor of the agreement, as are Israelis. Kimche closes optimistically, saying, “Let us hope the work we have done together... will have laid the foundations of a strong and lasting bond of friendship between our two countries.”

Document 260: United Nations Security Council Resolution 542, Deploring the Loss of Life Caused by Events Taking Place in Northern Lebanon (November 23, 1983) [S.C. Res. 542, U.N. SCOR, 2480th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/542 (1983)]. In Resolution 542, the Security Council, deeply concerned by the intensification of fighting, deplores the loss of human life caused by events in northern Lebanon. It requests the concerned parties to immediately accept a cease-fire and to settle their differences exclusively by peaceful means.

Document 261: Statement by U.S. President Ronald Reagan on the Deployment of U.S. Marines in Lebanon (February 7, 1984) [available at http://www.reagan.utexas.edu/ resource/speeches/1984/20784d.htm]. Following attacks on U.S. military camps in Beirut in October 1983 that killed 241 marines, the Reagan administration came under enormous congressional pressure to withdraw U.S. marines from Beirut. In this statement, U.S. President Ronald Reagan asks the secretary of defense to present him with a plan for the redeployment of marines from land to ships anchored offshore. The redeployment was completed by the end of February.

iii. Post-WarDevelopments

Document 262: United Nations General Assembly Resolution 39/146, Calling on Member States to Isolate Israel until It Complies with Its International Obligations (December 14, 1984) [G.A. Res. 39/146, U.N. GAOR, U.N. Doc. 39/146 (1984)]. United Nations General Assembly Resolution 39/146 determines that Israel’s record, policies, and actions confirm that it is not a peace-loving member state, and, therefore, calls upon member states to refrain from supplying Israel with any weapons and related equipment, to suspend economic, financial, and technological assistance to and cooperation with Israel, and to sever diplomatic, trade, and cultural relations with Israel so as to isolate it in all fields.

Document 263: United Nations Security Council Resolution 564, Expressing Deepest Concern at the Heavy Costs in Human Life in Lebanon (May 31, 1985) [S.C. Res. 564, U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/RES/564 (1985)]. Alarmed at the continued escalation of violence involving the civilian population in Lebanon, including Palestinians in refugee camps, the Security Council in Resolution 564 expresses its deepest concern at the heavy costs in human life and calls on all parties to take necessary measures to alleviate the suffering resulting from acts of violence.

Document 264: United Nations Security Council Resolution 573, Condemning Israeli Attack on Tunisia (October 4, 1985) [S.C. Res. 573, U.N. SCOR, 2615th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/573 (1985)]. After Israel launched an air attack on PLO Headquarters in Hammam Al-Shut, Tunisia, the Security Council issued Resolution 573, vigorously condemning Israel’s act of armed aggression against Tunisian territory, which violated of the United Nations Charter, international law, and norms of conduct.

Document 265: United Nations Security Council Resolution 587, Condemning Attacks against UNIFIL (September 23, 1986) [S.C. Res. 587, U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/ RES/587 (1986)]. United Nations Security Council Resolution 587 condemns in the strongest terms the attacks against the UNIFIL and expresses indignation at the support that such criminal action may receive. It pays homage to the courage of the soldiers of UNIFIL and urges all concerned parties to cooperate with UNIFIL in the fulfillment of its mandate. Finally, it requests the Secretary-General to report on the application of this resolution within twenty-one days.

Document 266: Memorandum of Agreement between Israel and the United States (April 21, 1988) [available at http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/Foreign%20Relations/Israel s%20Foreign%20Relations%20since%201947/1984-1988/355%20 Memorandu m%20of%20Agreement%20between%20Israel%20and%20the]. Israel and the United States signed this memorandum regarding joint political, security, and economic cooperation, with Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir signing for Israel and President Ronald Reagan signing for the United States. The agreement establishes a comprehensive framework for continued consultation and cooperation and appoints officials to meet regularly for joint discussions of current issues. The agreement is one of the most comprehensive ever signed between the two countries. It names Israel as a major non-NATO ally of the United States.

Document 267: League of Arab States Resolution 5544, Lebanese Hostages and Detainees Held in Israeli Camps and Prisons (March 21, 1996) [U.N. GAOR, 51st Sess., Annex, U.N. Doc. A/51/112 (1996)]. The League of Arab States in Resolution 5544 strongly condemns Israeli attacks and oppressive practices in the occupied Lebanese territories of southern Lebanon and the western Bekaa, in particular the kidnapping and detention of innocent citizens who were imprisoned without trial in Israel and in camps run by forces under Israeli control.

Document 268: United Nations Security Council Resolution 1052, Calling for an Immediate Cessation of Hostilities (April 18, 1996) [S.C. Res. 1052, U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/ RES/1052 (1996)]. In Resolution 1052, the Security Council, gravely concerned at attacks on civilian targets and at the loss of life and suffering and stressing the need for all parties to respect the rules of international humanitarian law with regard to the protection of civilians, calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and supports the ongoing diplomatic efforts to that end.

Document 269: United Nations General Assembly Resolution 50/22, Considering that Lebanon is Entitled to Appropriate Redress for Qana Bombings (April 25, 1996) [G.A. Res. 50/22, U.N. GAOR, 50th Sess., 117th plen. mtg., Agenda Item 44, U.N. Doc. A/RES/50/22 C (1996)]. In Resolution 50/22, the General Assembly expresses its grave concern over the accidental bombing of the UNIFIL base in the village of Qana on April 18, 1996, which resulted in the heavy loss of life among civilians. The General Assembly considers that Lebanon is entitled to appropriate redress from Israel.

Document 270: Cease-Fire Understanding between Israel and Lebanon (April 26, 1996) [reprinted in Mideast Accord: Restricting the Violence in Lebanon, N.Y Times, April 27, 1996, at A8]. U.S. Secretary of State Warren Christopher was able to bring about an understanding between Israel, Lebanon, the Hezbollah, and Syria that effectively ended Israel’s operations in Lebanon. The subsequent agreement between Israel and Lebanon establishes four conditions for a cease-fire: (1) armed groups in Lebanon will not carry out attacks into Israel; (2) Israel and those cooperating with it will not fire any kind of weapon at civilians or civilian targets in Lebanon; (3) the two parties will commit to ensuring that civilians are not the target of attack and that civilian-populated areas are not used as launching grounds for attacks; and (4) nothing in the agreement would preclude any party from exercising the right of self-defense. A monitoring group was also established consisting of the United States, France, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel. The agreement has been honored more in the breach than in the observance.

Document 271: Report of the Secretary-General's Military Advisor Concerning the Shelling of the United Nations Compound at Qana (May 7, 1996) [U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/1996/337 (1996)]. United Nations Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali prefaces the report of his military advisor, Major-General Franklin van Kappen, on the Qana bombing by considering the seriousness of the incident given that civilians, including women and children, had sought refuge in the Qana compound before it was bombed. The report presents the Israeli account of events, as well as a detailed sequence of events directly preceding the incident. The report finds that “it is unlikely that the shelling of the United Nations compound was the result of gross technical and/or procedural errors,” as Israel had contended. To prevent a recurrence of the incident, van Kappen recommends that new precautions be adopted by Israeli forces with regard to firing at targets near United Nations positions.

Document 272: Commission on Human Rights Resolution 1998/62, Human Rights Situation in Southern Lebanon and Western Bekaa (April 21, 1998) [Res. 1998/62, U.N. High Comm. on Hum. Rts., 56th mtg., U.N. Doc. 1998/62 (1998)]. In Resolution 1998/62, the Commission on Human Rights censures repeated Israeli aggressions in southern Lebanon and western Bekaa, which had caused a large number of casualties, displacement of families, and destruction of property. The commission expresses its grave concern about Israel’s detention of Lebanese citizens in the Khiyam and Marjayoun detention centers and also at the death of some detainees as a result of ill-treatment and torture. It also expresses its indignation at the Israeli Supreme Court ruling of March 4, 1998, which permits Israeli authorities to retain Lebanese detainees in Israeli prisons without trial and to hold them as hostages and as a bargaining card.

Document 273: Government of Israel Resolution to Deploy on the Border with Lebanon by July 2000 (March 5, 2000) [ available at http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/ Government/ Communiques/2000/Government%20of%20Israel%20Resolution%20-%2005- Mar-2000]. In this resolution, the Israeli government announces that IDF will deploy on the border with Lebanon byJuly 2000. The government resolves to act to strengthen the frontline towns and villages in terms of security and socio-economics.

Document 274: Commission on Human Rights Resolution 2000/7, Human Rights in the Occupied Syrian Golan (April 17, 2000) [Res. 2000/7, U.N. Comm. on Hum. Rts., 52d mtg., U.N. Doc. 2000/7 (2000)]. In Resolution 2000/7, the Commission on Human Rights expresses its concern over the suffering of Syrian citizens in occupied Syrian Golan following review of a report by the Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian People and Other Arabs of the Occupied Territories. The committee reaffirms Security Council Resolution 497, which determines that Israel’s decision to impose its laws, jurisdiction, and administration in the Occupied Syrian Golan Heights are null and void. The commission calls upon Israel to desist from imposing Israeli citizenship and Israeli identity cards on Syrian citizens in the occupied Syrian Golan.

Document 275: Letter from the Secretary-General Addressed to the President of the Security Council Informing Him of Israel's Decision to Withdraw from Southern Lebanon (April 17, 2000) [U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/2000/322 (2000)]. In this letter to the president of the Security Council, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan announces that the permanent representative of Israel, Ambassador Yehuda Lancry, had conveyed to him the formal notification of Israel’s decision to withdraw its forces from Lebanon by July 2000. Annan reports that the withdrawal is to be carried out in full accordance with Security Council Resolutions 425 and 426 and that Israel intends to cooperate fully with the United Nations.

Document 276: Report of the Secretary-General on the Implementation of Security Council Resolutions 425 and 426, Announcing a Special Envoy to Monitor the Israeli Withdrawal from Lebanon (May 22, 2000) [U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/2000/460 (2000)]. In this report, the president of the Security Council details the mission of his special envoy, Terje Roed-Larsen, to Lebanon. The special envoy had, along with the force commander of the UNIFIL and a team of experts, met with the governments of Israel and Lebanon and other concerned member states in the region, including Egypt, Jordan, and the Syrian Arab Republic, to discuss Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon. The delegation also met with the PLO and the League of Arab States. The report presents the procedures and mechanism in place for confirming Israel’s full withdrawal and assisting the Government of Lebanon in ensuring the return of its effective authority in the area.

Document 277: United Nations Security Council Resolution 1310, Endorsing the Understanding that UNIFIL Will Deploy throughout Its Area of Operations (July 27, 2000) [S.C. Res. 1310, U.N. SCOR, 4177th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/1310 (2000)]. United Nations Security Council Resolution 1310 endorses the understanding that the UNIFIL will deploy and function fully throughout its area of operations and that the government of Lebanon will strengthen its presence in the area of operation. It welcomes the Secretary-General’s statement that as of July 24, 2000, Israel had removed all violations of the withdrawal line. It also calls on the government of Lebanon to ensure the return of its effective authority and presence in the south and encourages it to ensure a calm environment.

Document 278: United Nations Security Council Resolution 1337, Calling on the Government of Lebanon to Ensure the Return of Its Effective Authority and Presence in the South (January 30, 2001) [S.C. Res. 1337, U.N. SCOR, 4267th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/ RES/1337 (2001)]. In Resolution 1337, the Security Council extends the mandate of the UNIFIL for six months. It calls on the parties to fulfill their commitments to respect the withdrawal line identified by the United Nations, condemns all acts of violence, and expresses concern about serious breaches and violations of the withdrawal line. The Security Council welcomes the contribution of UNIFIL to operational demining, encourages further assistance in mine action by the United Nations to the government of Lebanon, and calls on donor countries to support these efforts through financial and in-kind donations.

Document 279: Commission on Human Rights Resolution 2001/6, Detailing the Human Rights Situation in Occupied Syrian Golan (April 18, 2001) [Res. 2001/6, U.N. Comm. on Hum. Rts., 61st mtg., U.N. Doc. 2001/6 (2001)]. In Resolution 2001/16, the Commission on Human Rights expresses its deep concern over the suffering of Syrian citizens in the occupied Syrian Golan due to the violation of their human rights occurring since the Israeli military occupation of 1967. The commission calls upon Israel to comply with relevant General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, particularly Security Council Resolution 497.

Document 280: Commission on Human Rights Resolution 2001/10, Human Rights Situation of Lebanese Detainees in Israel (April 18, 2001) [Res. 2001/10, U.N. Comm. on Hum. Rts., 62d mtg., U.N. Doc. 2001/10 (2001)]. In Resolution 2001/10, the Commission on Human Rights calls upon the government of Israel to refrain from holding detained Lebanese citizens as hostages for bargaining purposes and to release them immediately. It also affirms Israel’s obligation to allow the ICRC and other international humanitarian organizations to visit the detainees regularly. Further, the commission calls upon the government of Israel to submit to UNIFIL maps of the landmine fields laid throughout civilian villages that obstruct the resumption of normal life.

Document 281: Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (January 16, 2002) [Report of the Secretary-General, U.N. SCOR, U.N. Doc. S/2002/55 (2002)]. In this report, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan recommends extending UNIFIL’s mandate for six months (until July 31) in light of conditions in the area. However, he suggests that 1,700 troops be removed from the area. Annan also recommends that the government of Lebanese do more to reassert its authority over areas vacated by Israel twenty months previously.

Document 282: Commission on Human Rights Resolution 2002/10, Report on Human Rights Situation of Lebanese Detainees in Israel (April 19, 2002) [Res. 2002/10, U.N. Comm. on Hum. Rts., 47th mtg., Doc. 2002/10 (2002)]. In Resolution 2002/10, the Commission for Human Rights condemns the detention, ill-treatment, and torture by Israel of Lebanese civilians abducted and detained in Lebanon and subsequently transferred to prisons in Israel. The commission calls upon Israel to comply with the Geneva Conventions for the protection of victims of war and allow the ICRC to visit the detainees regularly.

Document 283: United Nations General Assembly Resolution 58/100, Occupied Syrian Golan (December 17, 2003) [G.A. Res. 58/100, U.N. GAOR, 58th Sess., Agenda Item 84, U.N. Doc. A/RES/58/100 (2003)]. In Resolution 58/100, the General Assembly, deeply concerned that the Syrian Golan has been under continued Israeli military occupation since 1967, calls upon Israel to comply with relevant resolutions.

iv. 2006 War

Document 284: United Nations Security Council Resolution 1655 (January 31, 2006) [S.C. Res. 1655, U.N. SCOR 5362d mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/1655 (2006)]. In response to Hezbollah’s rocket fire attacks into Israeli territory, the Security Council urges Lebanon to assert its authority to prevent these attacks originating from its territory.

Document 285: United Nations Security Council Resolution 1697 (July 31, 2006) [S.C. Res. 1697, U.N. SCOR 5501st mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/1697 (2006)]. The Security Council expresses concern at the escalation of hostilities between Lebanon and Israel since July 12, 2006. In addition, it urges both sides of the conflict to respect the safety of UNIFIL and other United Nations personnel.

Document 286: United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 (August 11, 2006) [S.C. Res. 1701, U.N. SCOR, 5511th mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/1701 (2006)]. In an attempt to bring an end to the conflict, the Security Council passed this resolution a month after the conflict began. It would serve as the template for the cease-fire agreement that Lebanon, Hezbollah, and Israel would sign in the following days.

Document 287: United Nations General Assembly Resolution 61/154, Human Rights Situation Arising from the Recent Israeli Military Operations in Lebanon (February 14, 2007). As an epilogue to the July war, the General Assembly deplores the civilian casualties that occurred during the conflict as a result of Israeli operations. The resolution notes the deaths of 1,100 civilians and destruction of vital civilian infrastructure in Lebanon.

Document 288: United Nations Security Council Resolution 1773 (August 24, 2007) [S.C. Res. 1773, U.N. SCOR, 5733d mtg., U.N. Doc. S/RES/1773 (2007)]. The Security Council emphasizes the need to rectify some of the causes to the July war conflict, including continued detention of Israeli soldiers and Lebanese prisoners in Israel. The Security Council also extends UNIFIL’s mandate until August 31, 2008.

4.