UNIFIL head Aroldo Lázaro visited southeast Lebanon this week to see the impact of exchanges of fire. Given the real danger of escalation, we stress: only a political and diplomatic solution is viable. We call on everyone to lay down their weapons so people can return & rebuild.

Statement by UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Aroldo Lázaro on the occasion of Eid El Fitr:

Ramadan should be a time of peace and reflection, but the current situation along the Blue Line has deeply affected these notions.

Joint Statement of Joanna Wronecka and Aroldo Lázaro:

It is six months since the exchanges of fire across the Blue Line began, and continue unabated, taking a heavy toll on both sides.

UNIFIL is very concerned over the surge of violence occurring across the Blue Line right now.

This escalation has caused a high number of civilian deaths and the destruction of homes and livelihoods.

#RamadanKareem !
May this Holy month bring reflection, compassion, unity & peace. Warm wishes from UNIFIL & its 10k+ peacekeepers.

Despite daunting challenges, our peacekeepers remain on task, and we continue to encourage de-escalation through dialogue and presence on the ground.

Last week and today I met separately with Lebanese Speaker Berri, Prime Minister Miqati, الجيش اللبناني Commander General Aoun and Foreign Minister Bou Habib. We discussed the urgent need for de-escalation and the importance of all parties committing to Resolution 1701.

Over the weekend I visited peacekeepers in several UN positions in southeast Lebanon. Despite the circumstances, they remain committed to patrolling and other tasks to restore security and stability. I am immensely proud of the work our peacekeepers are doing each and every day.

📹 Recap of Jean-Pierre Lacroix’s visit to Lebanon: After meetings with senior leaders in Beirut, the UN Peacekeeping chief visited UNIFIL in the south to see firsthand peacekeepers' dedicated efforts, including regular patrols on the Blue Line.
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Today, Jean-Pierre Lacroix met with representatives of UNIFIL's troop-contributing countries to discuss the current situation along the Blue Line. He thanked attendees for their support to the mission and reiterated the importance of full de-escalation by all sides.

Head of Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix has arrived in Lebanon for his regular visit to the Middle East, this time at a particularly challenging moment.
He will discuss UNIFIL's operations with senior Lebanese leaders and meet with the Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL peacekeepers.

Pleasure to meet today with European Union High Representative/Vice President Josep Borrell Fontelles. We discussed current situation along the Blue Line and the importance of preventing further escalation.
Pursuing a diplomatic solution is not only possible, but essential.

As the new year begins, I hope for a diplomatic solution to ease tensions in this region. Recommitting to Resolution 1701 is crucial.

To our dedicated peacekeepers, especially during these tough times, thank you. Your safety is our priority.

Wishing you all a #HappyNewYear !

Thanks to UNIFIL's peacekeepers from 47 countries for your dedication to peace in this region. Let's wish for peace on earth, especially along the Blue Line, and continue to work toward political and diplomatic solutions.
#MerryChristmas and a happy, safe holiday season to all!

Statement by UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Lieutenant General Aroldo Lázaro:

“I am concerned by the ongoing intensification of the exchanges of fire along the Blue Line that has already claimed too many lives, caused significant damage, and jeopardized livelihoods.