The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has stated that peace in south Lebanon remains elusive due to the continued repercussions of the conflict. According to UNIFIL's head, Lieutenant General Deodato Abaniara, achieving lasting peace requires commitment and political solutions from the parties involved. He made these remarks during an event marking the International Day of Peace at UNIFIL's headquarters in Naqoura.
Lieutenant General Abaniara emphasized that peace is not a one-time event, but a continuous responsibility. UNIFIL continues to conduct patrols and maintain open communication channels with the parties to minimize the risk of miscommunication and escalation. The force is also working with the Lebanese Armed Forces as they assume greater responsibilities in the south.
The conflict between Hezbollah and the Israeli military has had severe humanitarian and material impacts on south Lebanon, including the displacement of thousands of people, disruption of livelihoods, and widespread damage to homes and infrastructure. The violence has also resulted in civilian casualties and injuries.
While UNIFIL can help restore stability and prevent miscommunication, Lieutenant General Abaniara stressed that the force cannot replace the political will and decisions needed to permanently end the conflict. He emphasized that the responsibility for reaching a political solution lies with the parties involved.
UNIFIL will continue to play its role by maintaining open communication channels, reducing the risk of escalation, and supporting diplomatic efforts. Lieutenant General Abaniara highlighted the importance of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which he said remains the foundation for achieving lasting peace and stability in south Lebanon.
The International Day of Peace, observed annually on September 21, was established by the UN General Assembly in 1981 to promote peace values and reject violence. In 2001, the General Assembly designated this day as an occasion for ceasefire and non-violence. This year's UNIFIL commemoration marks the last time the force will observe the day before its mandate ends in 2026.
The event took place as UNIFIL's mandate is set to conclude in 2026, following a UN Security Council decision in 2025 to end the force's mission. Lieutenant General Abaniara also underscored the importance of continued cooperation between the Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL to maintain stability and support the extension of Lebanese state authority in the south.
Key points
- UNIFIL's role in maintaining stability and promoting peace in south Lebanon
- The impact of the conflict on civilians and infrastructure in south Lebanon
- The need for a political solution to achieve lasting peace in the region
