International Monitoring and Implementation Mechanism

The International Monitoring and Implementation Mechanism (IMIM) was created to monitor the 2024 Israel-Lebanon ceasefire agreement. Following the Israel–Hezbollah conflict (2023–present) and year long of heavy fighting, the United States arranged a ceasefire that started on November 27, 2024, meant to end the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

Background

In October 2023 the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated, as Hezbollah joined Hamas attacks on Israel, which became a full scale war.^[1][2] The ceasefire agreement achieved in November 2024, called for a 60 day period without fighting. During this time, both sides agreed to pull back their forces. Hezbollah would move north of the Litani River, while the Lebanese Armed forces (LAF) would gain control of Southern Lebanon.^[3] The agreement required also the Disarmament of Hezbollah. The IMIM was established to ensure both sides follow the terms of the agreement.^[4][5][6][7]

Composition and structure

The International Monitoring and Implementation Mechanism, that is led by the US and France, includes also Lebanon, Israel and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The mechanism members include both military officers and civilians, and representatives of the US central Command, French Ministry for Armed Forces, the Lebanese Army, and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Major General Jasper Jeffers from the US and Brigadier General Guillaume Ponchin from France are the co-chairs. The IMIM holds regular meetings and works closely with the LAF and UNIFIL to monitor the situation on the ground.^[8][9]

Mandate and responsibilities

The main responsibilities of the IMIM are:

• To watch over the implementation of the ceasefire agreement and related promises.
• Investigate reports of violations and communicated with the involved parties
• Help the Lebanese Army improve its ability to enforce the agreement, including removal of illegal weapons and equipment
• Make sure Israel, Lebanon and UNIFIL continue full communication and cooperation while handling incidents
• Give advice on wats to address violations and ensure the ceasefire terms are followed.

The IMIM works under the rules set by United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for disarming all armed groups in Lebanon and creating a safe zone between the Blue Line and the Litani River, free of armed people.^[10][5][8]

Challenges and criticism

Since the establishment, the IMIM has faced several issues:

Ongoing violations

Both Israel and Hezbollah have reported ongoing violations and breaks in the ceasefire, such as cross-border fire and military actions. These raise doubts about how well the IMIM can stop tensions from growing.^[11][8]

Limited power

The IMIM lacks the ability to enforce the rules on its own. It mainly gives advice and helps to coordinate. while depending on the parties to follow its recommendations.^[5]

Politics

As there are several countries involved, including big powered ones like the US and France, the inner politics influences the outcome and decisions. The specific of each country, make nit hard on moving forward.^[5][8]

See Also

• UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL)
• Israel-Hezbollah Conflict
• Hezbollah
• Israel-Lebanon relations