UN Security Council Condemns Recent Attacks On UNIFIL Sites In Southern Lebanon

The UN Security Council has denounced recent attacks and violence affecting the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in southern Lebanon. These incidents have injured several peacekeepers over the past weeks. The Council urged all parties to ensure the safety of UNIFIL personnel, emphasising that peacekeepers should not be targeted.

Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, visited UNIFIL sites in southern Lebanon. He met with injured peacekeepers affected by direct attacks or caught in crossfire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. Lacroix praised their dedication despite challenging conditions.

The Security Council reaffirmed its full support for UNIFIL's role in maintaining regional stability. They expressed gratitude to countries contributing troops to this peacekeeping mission. The Council also voiced concern over civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure and cultural heritage sites, urging adherence to international humanitarian law.

Lacroix highlighted the peacekeepers' efforts to assist local civilians by providing food, medical evacuations, and humanitarian aid despite obstacles. He noted that two UNIFIL personnel were injured when a tower at one of their operational sites was hit.

The statement stressed the significance of UNIFIL's daily coordination activities with the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Israeli army. This coordination is crucial for supporting local communities and ensuring supplies reach UNIFIL sites.

Lacroix's visit included a meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, along with UN Special Coordinator Jan Kubis and the UNIFIL Force Commander. Discussions focused on reaffirming the mission's critical role and implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which addresses hostilities between Lebanon and Israel.

Resolution 1701 Implementation

The Security Council called for full implementation of Resolution 1701. This resolution pertains to ending hostilities between Lebanon and Israel, highlighting its importance for regional peace.

During his visit, Lacroix met with UNIFIL staff in Naqoura and senior mission leaders. He expressed gratitude for their commitment to their vital mission amid exceptional challenges.

The Security Council also expressed deep concern about threats to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Baalbek and Tyre due to ongoing violence. They urged all involved parties to protect these cultural heritage sites from further damage.

With inputs from WAM