A joint statement was issued by the UN Special Coordinator in Lebanon, Joanna Frontiska, and the Head of the UNIFIL mission and its Force Commander, General Aroldo Latharo, regarding the latest security developments in southern Lebanon. The statement reads: "Six months have passed since the start of cross-border fire along the Blue Line, and it continues unabated, causing devastating losses on both sides. The lives of thousands have been severely impacted, with dozens of civilians tragically losing their lives, while many others have lost their homes, livelihoods, and any sense of certainty about the future."
It adds: "The ongoing cycle of strikes and counter-strikes in violation of the cessation of hostilities represents the most serious breach of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 since its adoption in 2006. The gradual expansion in the scope and scale of confrontations beyond the Blue Line significantly increases the risks of miscalculation and leads to further deterioration of an already concerning situation."
It continues: "Violence and suffering have persisted for far too long and must stop. We urgently appeal to all parties to reaffirm their commitment to the cessation of hostilities under Resolution 1701 and to utilize all means to avoid further escalation while there is still room for diplomatic efforts."
The statement concludes: "It is also essential to refocus on the comprehensive goal of a lasting ceasefire and finding a long-term solution to the conflict. A political process, based on the full implementation of Resolution 1701, aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict and ensuring long-term stability, has become more necessary today than ever. The United Nations is fully prepared to support those efforts."
