UNIFIL was originally established by the Security Council in March 1978 to confirm the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon, restore international peace and security, and assist the Lebanese Government in regaining its effective authority in the area. This mandate had to be adjusted twice in connection with the events of 1982 and 2000.

Following the July-August 2006 crisis, the Council increased the size of the Force and decided that, in addition to its original mandate, UNIFIL would monitor the cessation of hostilities; accompany and support the Lebanese armed forces during their deployment throughout the southern regions of the country; and provide assistance to facilitate humanitarian access to the civilian population and the voluntary and safe return of displaced persons.

The Kazakh peacekeeping contingent, including military observers and staff officers, has been participating in the UNIFIL mission since October 2018.