Last night’s violent escalation marks a further worrying deterioration in the situation between Lebanon and Israel.
Heavy exchanges of fire, intensified air and ground activity, and increased presence of Israeli forces inside Lebanese territory are deeply concerning developments. Also concerning are renewed “evacuation orders” from conflicting actors affecting civilians on both sides of the Blue Line.
Heightened rhetoric further exacerbates an already fragile situation. UNIFIL reiterates its call to the parties to recommit to Security Council Resolution 1701 and to a full cessation of hostilities as the only viable path toward lasting stability.
UNIFIL peacekeepers remain in position throughout our area of operations in south Lebanon and along the Blue Line, reporting violations, liaising between the parties, and – where possible – facilitating humanitarian access and the protection of civilians.