At a time when southern Lebanon is witnessing continuous field escalation and rapid security deterioration, the United Nations Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL) renewed its commitment to supporting stability and seeking to restore the cessation of hostilities, stressing that a political and diplomatic solution remains the only possible path to ending the conflict.
During a celebration held at UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura on the occasion of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, the Head of the Mission and Commander-in-Chief, Major General Deodato Abagnaara, confirmed that peacekeepers continue to perform their duties despite the complex circumstances and worsening security challenges.
Abagnaara pointed out that UNIFIL forces are working through liaison and coordination mechanisms to help reduce tension, coordinate the movement of humanitarian aid wherever possible, and contribute to creating the necessary conditions for stability.
He stressed that the political and diplomatic path remains the only possible solution to the conflict, stressing UNIFIL’s continued commitment to supporting the parties in order to restore the cessation of hostilities and create conditions for a permanent ceasefire.
The ceremony honored the peacekeepers who lost their lives while performing their duties. Six UNIFIL personnel were killed in recent months: Corporal Farizal Romdon, Corporal Rico Pramodia, Major Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Staff Sergeant Mohamed Nur Ikhwan, Staff Sergeant Florian Montorio, and Sergeant Anicette Girardin.
Abagnaara said that the United Nations today remembers more than 4,500 peacekeepers who have lost their lives around the world since 1948, including 345 from UNIFIL, stressing that their sacrifices reinforce the determination to continue the mission and work for peace.
On the occasion, UNIFIL affirmed its continued commitment to its mandate towards the people of southern Lebanon, despite the existing security challenges, reiterating its determination to continue its efforts for stability and a safer future on both sides of the Blue Line.
The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers is celebrated annually on May 29, in memory of military and civilian personnel who served in peacekeeping operations around the world, and in memory of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
