UNTSO: the future of UN peacekeeping in the Middle East

Abstract

This chapter explores the future of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) by examining its long-standing cooperation with UNDOF and UNIFIL, as well as the crucial role played by the Chief Coordinator of UN Peacekeeping in the Middle East. Drawing upon UNTSO's extensive operational experience in managing and coordinating peacekeeping efforts within the Israeli-Arab conflict, this chapter seeks to illuminate the potential applicability of UNTSO’s expertise in other peace operations around the world. By analysing the unique capabilities, institutional memory, and valuable lessons learned from UNTSO’s long-standing engagement in the Middle East, the chapter offers insights into the operation’s continued relevance vis-à-vis the conflict and how it can potentially support future operations worldwide. Despite facing difficult and ever-changing challenges, UNTSO remains an important piece of the UN’s involvement in the Israel-Arab conflict