"The Danger of Escalation is Real"... Lazzaro: We Urge All Parties to Embrace the Spirit of Unity

The Force Commander of UNIFIL, General Lazzaro, issued the following statement on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr: "Ramadan should be a time for peace and reflection, but the current situation along the Blue Line has profoundly affected these concepts. As we mark the end of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, UNIFIL calls for a return to ceasefire and moves towards a permanent cessation of hostilities and a long-term resolution to the conflict. About 50 countries are sending peacekeeping forces to southern Lebanon out of a sense of commitment, friendship, and the belief that lasting peace is achievable in the region. For 46 years, we have built strong ties with the local communities where we have lived and worked. Since October, UNIFIL has continued to urge the parties to respect their commitments under Resolution 1701, while also maintaining operational activities aimed at reducing tensions and preventing escalation. The mission has also provided medical care, dental and veterinary services in villages in southern Lebanon, supplied villages, civil defense, and schools with solar energy systems, donated necessary equipment for schools, hospitals, and ambulance teams, and provided infant formula and flour to those in need, among many other projects. We have communicated with the parties to ensure the safety of workers repairing vital civilian infrastructure damaged during the exchange of fire, or to facilitate the provision of humanitarian assistance. We will continue to be here for the people – working for peace – as long as it takes. The danger of escalation is real. There is no military solution to the current confrontation and violence; political and diplomatic solutions are the only way forward. Regardless of creed or background, we urge all parties to embrace the spirit of unity and compassion represented by the holiday and to seek a path to peace."