Blue Line: UN Withdrawal Line Between Lebanon and Israel - Defence And Security | UPSC Learning

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Blue Line: UN Withdrawal Line Between Lebanon and Israel

Blue Line: UN Withdrawal Line Between Lebanon and Israel

Medium⏱️ 7 min read98% Verified
defence and security

📖 Introduction

<h4>Introduction to the Blue Line</h4><p>The <strong>Blue Line</strong> is a significant demarcation line established in the volatile region between <strong>Lebanon</strong> and <strong>Israel</strong>. It serves as a crucial point of reference for regional stability and international monitoring efforts.</p><div class='info-box'><p>The <strong>Blue Line</strong> extends approximately <strong>120 kilometers</strong>. It delineates along <strong>Lebanon’s southern frontier</strong> and <strong>Israel’s northern border</strong>, marking a sensitive geopolitical boundary.</p></div><h4>Purpose and Nature of the Blue Line</h4><p>It is imperative to understand that the <strong>Blue Line</strong> is not an internationally recognized, permanent border. Instead, it is specifically designated as a <strong>line of withdrawal</strong>.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>A <strong>line of withdrawal</strong> signifies a temporary or specific boundary established to confirm the cessation of military occupation or presence. It differs from a formal border, which implies sovereignty and permanent territorial claims.</p></div><h4>Establishment by the United Nations</h4><p>The <strong>United Nations (UN)</strong> played a pivotal role in the creation and delineation of the <strong>Blue Line</strong>. Its establishment was a direct response to a significant geopolitical event in the region.</p><div class='info-box'><p>The <strong>Blue Line</strong> was set by the <strong>United Nations</strong> in <strong>May 2000</strong>. Its primary purpose was to confirm the complete withdrawal of <strong>Israeli forces</strong> from the south of <strong>Lebanon</strong>, in compliance with <strong>UN Security Council Resolution 425</strong>.</p></div><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>For <strong>UPSC exams</strong>, remember the distinction: the <strong>Blue Line</strong> is a <strong>line of withdrawal</strong>, not a conventional international border. This nuance is critical for questions on international relations and conflict resolution.</p></div>
Concept Diagram

💡 Key Takeaways

  • The Blue Line is a 120 km demarcation line between Lebanon and Israel.
  • It was established by the UN in 2000 to confirm Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
  • Crucially, it is a 'line of withdrawal,' not an internationally recognized permanent border.
  • It is continuously monitored by UNIFIL to prevent escalations and maintain a fragile peace.
  • Its historical context is rooted in decades of conflict and UN Security Council Resolution 425.

🧠 Memory Techniques

Memory Aid
98% Verified Content

📚 Reference Sources

UNIFIL official website and reports
Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) analyses
BBC News and Al Jazeera archives on Israel-Lebanon conflict