UN Under-Secretary-General visits Lebanon to assess conflict-affected areas

NAQOURA/BEIRUT, Lebanon — Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, conducted a visit to southern Lebanon to inspect areas most affected by the recent conflict near the Blue Line. During his visit, Lacroix toured the impacted zones and also boarded a vessel belonging to UNIFIL’s Maritime Task Force to observe the mission’s naval operations off the coast of Naqoura. 

Lacroix met with senior Lebanese officials, members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Lebanon, UNIFIL leadership, and fellow peacekeepers. 

In remarks delivered during his meetings, Lacroix reaffirmed the mission’s commitment to supporting local communities and assisting the parties in implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which remains a cornerstone for peace and security in the region. He also emphasized the importance of close coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces as UNIFIL continues its redeployment efforts in southern Lebanon. 

The Under-Secretary-General expressed deep appreciation for the work of UN peacekeepers, who continue to operate under increasingly complex and challenging conditions. He reiterated the UN’s unwavering support for promoting peace and security for all civilians affected by the conflict. 

Lacroix concluded his visit by stressing the importance of preserving and strengthening the current fragile calm along the Blue Line, particularly in light of escalating regional tensions.