Created by the U.N. Security Council in 1978 to confirm an Israeli withdrawal from that country, the force was enhanced in August 2006 to monitor cessation of Israeli-Lebanese hostilities that broke out that year, the United Nations said in a release.

The force also is charged with supporting Lebanese forces deployed throughout southern Lebanon, and helping ensure humanitarian access and voluntary, safe return of displaced persons.

"UNIFIL's goal toward maintaining peace and stability in south Lebanon has never faltered and has always maintained its momentum towards bringing normalcy in the area despite the many challenges," Commander Maj. Gen. Claudio Graziano said during a ceremony Wednesday at UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura.

The international force in Lebanon currently has about 12,500 troops, including about 1,500 naval personnel of the force's Maritime Task Force stationed along the Lebanese coast. UNIFIL supports the Lebanese navy in preventing any illegal transfer of arms or related material into the country.