UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) is a UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. It is mandated to monitor the cessation of hostilities; accompany and support the Lebanese Armed Forces as they deploy throughout the south of Lebanon, and coordinate its activities with the Governments of Lebanon and Israel. The mission also aims to ensure humanitarian access to civilian populations and the voluntary and safe return of displaced persons.
The Estonian Defence Forces support the mission with one staff officer.
Until 2019 Estonian Defence Forces infantry platoon, NSE and staff officers served in Lebanon. From Estonia’s perspective, contributing to UNIFIL helps to restore peace and security specifically in the Middle East as well internationally.
From December 1996 to May 1997 Estonian detachment to UNIFIL was an infantry company as a part of the Norwegian battalion.