UNIFIL Leader Advocates for Dialogue to Reduce Tensions

Synopsis

On March 19, Aroldo Lazaro Saenz, head of UNIFIL, emphasized the mission's commitment to stability and dialogue for a permanent ceasefire. He highlighted cooperation with Lebanese authorities and the importance of UN Resolution 1701 in achieving peace in southern Lebanon.

Key Takeaways

UNIFIL's commitment to support stability.
Importance of dialogue for de-escalation.
Recognition of sacrifices made by peacekeepers.
Collaboration with Lebanese Armed Forces is crucial.
Resolution 1701 as a framework for lasting peace.

Beirut, March 19 (NationPress) Aroldo Lazaro Saenz, the leader of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), reiterated on Wednesday the mission's unwavering dedication to promoting stability, the complete execution of UN Resolution 1701, and the de-escalation of tensions via dialogue to attain a lasting ceasefire.

The head of UNIFIL made these statements during a ceremony commemorating the 47th anniversary of the mission's establishment at its headquarters in Naqoura, southern Lebanon. The event was attended by local Lebanese leaders, high-ranking Lebanese army officials, various UN representatives, and peacekeeping troops.

"Our thoughts are with those who have experienced the loss of loved ones and homes," he remarked, also honoring the 339 peacekeepers who have sacrificed their lives in the quest for peace in southern Lebanon since 1978.

The UN official highlighted that following the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon in November of the previous year, the mission is now "entering a new phase, collaborating with the Lebanese army to clear roads, conduct repairs, and eliminate explosives."

Nonetheless, he emphasized that collaboration with the Lebanese government and local authorities is crucial for ensuring the mission's safe and effective operation, stating, "The Lebanese Armed Forces must remain the exclusive guarantor of security in the south."

He further noted that "the effective execution of Resolution 1701, which urges Lebanon and Israel to work towards a permanent ceasefire and forms the foundation of UNIFIL's mandate, can only be realized through collective efforts to avert escalation, sustain stability, and enhance state authority in southern Lebanon," according to Xinhua news agency.

The UN Security Council established UNIFIL in March 1978 to oversee the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and assist the Lebanese government in restoring effective control over the region. Its mandate has been broadened since the 2006 war to include monitoring the ceasefire and aiding Lebanese forces in maintaining security.

The mission has continued to fulfill its responsibilities during the latest bout of cross-border exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon that began in October 2023, which was ignited by the Gaza conflict.