Two minefields in Maroun al-Ras, in south Lebanon, recently cleared by UNIFIL’s Chinese Multirole Engineering Unit (CHINMEU), were officially handed over to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) on 4 February 2026. This symbolic transfer brings local communities closer to safer land.
Covering more than 4,850 square metres, the areas were cleared over several months in close coordination with the LAF and with technical support and quality assurance from the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS). Over 800 landmines were safely destroyed. One minefield had been cleared before the 2023–2024 conflict but had to be carefully checked again to ensure there were no new concerns. The second was part of the humanitarian demining operations UNIFIL resumed last summer, following a nearly two-year pause due to exchanges of fire across the Blue Line.
“Today’s handover is not just a procedural step,” said Major General Man Bahadur Mahara, UNIFIL Deputy Force Commander. “It means land is being returned to families, farmers, and children. Every mine removed is a silent victory that saves lives and helps build safer generations.”
Colonel Gang Li, UNIFIL Chinese Commander, highlighted the achievement: “a landmark accomplishment in UNIFIL's mission, and a concrete contribution to removing threats to the safety of local civilians.”
Maj. Mounir Akiki, Head of the Lebanese Regional Mine Action Center, said: “land release and clearance is not just a technical task; it is a promise of hope and security for all local communities and future generations. This successful handover reflects strong cooperation and effective partnership.”
Maj. Gen. Paul Sanzey, UNIFIL Chief of Staff, added: “This is about restoring safety for residents, supporting the return to peace, preparing the future of Lebanon, and returning land to the Lebanese people.”
This handover is part of UNIFIL’s ongoing cooperation with the LAF and support for their redeployment in the south, which is essential for extending state authority. Beyond these fields, peacekeepers have cleared land in and around UNIFIL positions and Blue Line markers, in addition to clearing roadblocks to reduce risks for civilians, the LAF, and UNIFIL personnel. Such dangerous but life-saving operations are crucial to removing explosive remnants of war.
