UNIFIL expects post-election changes

BEIRUT, Lebanon, May 1 (UPI) -- U.N. officials in Lebanon said their peacekeeping mission there could change dramatically in the aftermath of the June parliamentary elections.

Gen. Claudio Graziano, commander of the U.N. Interim Force in Lebanon, predicted challenges ahead for his peacekeeping efforts, the Lebanese Daily Star reports.

"The situation in our area of operations remains somewhat volatile and the upcoming electoral period in Lebanon is likely to impact our operations," Graziano said.

UNIFIL operates largely in the south of Lebanon to implement cease-fire obligations with Israel and to ensure militants, most of which are loyal to Hezbollah, are honoring their commitments in the area as well.

Timor Goksel, a former U.N. adviser, told the Star he was uncertain of any complications in the south as Hezbollah is not expected to face any significant challenges in the parliamentary elections, adding the Lebanese military has gained influence in the area.

For his part, defense analyst and retired Lebanese Gen. Elias Hanna said the political climate in Lebanon could change drastically in the country as the March 8 coalition, which includes Hezbollah, is widely expected to make significant gains in the June contest.

"The government will be different after the elections," he said.