A reduction in violence in recent weeks has enabled UNIFIL peacekeepers to expand their activities across south Lebanon, supporting local communities while continuing to implement Security Council Resolution 1701.
Although violations of the resolution continue to be recorded, the improved security situation has allowed peacekeepers to focus more on their core mandated tasks. These include monitoring developments on the ground, maintaining liaison channels between the parties and supporting humanitarian access.
“The welcome reduction in violence allows our peacekeepers to do more of what we are here to do,” said UNIFIL spokesperson Kandice Ardiel. “UNIFIL remains present across south Lebanon and along the Blue Line.”
At the same time, peacekeepers continue to facilitate humanitarian assistance by coordinating safe passage and providing security support for aid convoys moving through affected areas.
As families return to villages impacted by the recent hostilities, UNIFIL has resumed a wider range of activities aimed at supporting recovery and helping restore a sense of normalcy.
“As people have begun to return to their villages, a lot of work remains to be done,” Mission’s spokesperson said. “Our peacekeepers have started working to improve safety along access routes and, within their means and capabilities, support the restoration of essential services such as healthcare and water.”
Recent projects reflect those efforts. UNIFIL provided medical equipment and emergency room supplies to Tibnin Governmental Hospital, helping strengthen healthcare services for communities across south Lebanon. The Mission has also facilitated repairs and maintenance of water networks serving dozens of towns and villages affected by damage to infrastructure.
Protecting civilians remains an important part of UNIFIL’s mandate. In areas where it is deployed, the Mission works to help create a safer environment, ensure the security and freedom of movement of United Nations personnel and humanitarian workers, and supports efforts to reduce risks to civilians under imminent threat of physical violence.
As explosive hazards remain one of the most serious challenges facing returning communities, peacekeepers “are also addressing the risks posed by unexploded ordnance and other remnants of the conflict, which continue to threaten the safe movement of civilians, peacekeepers and the Lebanese Armed Forces,” Ardiel said.
At the same time, UNIFIL continues to urge all parties to comply with their obligations under Resolution 1701, and while significant challenges remain, peacekeepers continue to work alongside local authorities and communities to support recovery, reduce risks and contribute to long-term stability in south Lebanon.
