UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has emphasized the need for a sustained United Nations presence in Lebanon following the upcoming departure of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Addressing the UN Security Council, Guterres expressed deep concerns over the escalating crisis in the Middle East, warning of the potential for a return to full-scale conflict. He highlighted the severe impact of the situation, extending beyond the region and affecting vulnerable countries and communities globally.
Guterres pointed out the recent escalation in Lebanon, citing increased Israeli operations in Lebanese territory and retaliatory actions by Hezbollah into Israel. The conflict has resulted in civilian casualties, mass displacements, and significant destruction of homes and infrastructure in southern Lebanon. Tragically, seven UN peacekeepers, including one killed just last week, have lost their lives in the violence.
Calling for a diplomatic resolution that upholds Lebanon’s territorial integrity and political independence as outlined in Security Council Resolution 1701, Guterres stressed the importance of maintaining a UN uniformed presence post-UNIFIL’s departure. As per Security Council Resolution 2790, UNIFIL is scheduled to conclude its operations by December 31 and complete the withdrawal of personnel from Lebanon within the following year.
