The Acting Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator in Lebanon, Arnault, affirmed the United Nations’ commitment to continue supporting the implementation of Resolution 1701, and to support Lebanon in strengthening its security, stability and territorial integrity, during a briefing he presented to the Security Council, along with Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix, regarding the implementation of the resolution issued in 2006.
A statement issued by the United Nations Office in Beirut explained that Arnault reviewed the repercussions of the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah since March 2, noting the extent of destruction, widespread displacement, and great humanitarian needs, in addition to the challenges facing the recovery phase, calling on the international community to intensify its support to confront these challenges.
Arnault touched on the ongoing diplomatic efforts, especially the tripartite framework agreed upon by Lebanon, Israel, and the United States on June 26, reiterating the United Nations’ support for all initiatives aimed at reducing tension and helping the parties reach arrangements that end decades of conflict, while stressing the need for continued international engagement and ensuring that these efforts have broad national ownership.
He also highlighted the efforts of the Lebanese authorities to extend state authority over the entire Lebanese territory, considering that the success of this process requires the integration of the efforts of various state institutions and their ability to provide security and services to citizens.
He stressed that the Lebanese Army, as a national institution that enjoys widespread confidence, will form a fundamental pillar in this process, stressing the importance of supporting it in the next stage.
At the conclusion of his briefing, Arnault indicated that the recent developments and the accompanying regional unrest and concerns about the situation in southern Lebanon after the UNIFIL phase reinforce the need for a continued international role, stressing the United Nations’ commitment to supporting the implementation of Resolution 1701 and continuing its support for Lebanon’s security, stability, territorial integrity and recovery.
