The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon said it would not leave positions in the south despite what it said was an Israeli request to “relocate”, AFP reports.

“On September 30, the IDF (Israeli military) notified UNIFIL of their intention to undertake limited ground incursions into Lebanon. They also requested we relocate from some of our positions,” the UN Interim Force in Lebanon said.

“Peacekeepers remain in all positions and the UN flag continues to fly.”

“We are regularly adjusting our posture and activities, and we have contingency plans ready to activate if absolutely necessary,” it added.