On August 13, UNIFIL French peacekeepers organized a lively summer event in Dibil, south Lebanon. Collaborating with the Lebanon Scouts, the event included games, creative workshops, and treats, bringing joy to around 150 children living under continued exchanges of fire.

“The aim of this activity is to give these kids a break despite the tension,” said the chief of the French civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) team.

The following day, Colonel Christophe Maurin, Commander of UNIFIL’s Force Commander Reserve (where French peacekeepers serve), joined about 500 community members for an Assumption Day procession and mass. Local leaders and Force Commander Reserve’s chaplain, Padre Jean-Thierry, celebrated the mass. “It was clearly my best Assumption Day so far,” Colonel Maurin remarked.

The peacekeepers were not merely there to provide welcome entertainment; they also took the opportunity to engage with families and local authorities, discussing the challenges faced by the village and strengthening their ties with the people they support. These connections are as important as ever in the context of the ongoing exchanges of fire in the area.

UNIFIL will continue to work to restore stability and security, while also building community connections and supporting those in need.