UN Secretary General Guterres says: ‘Lebanon is on the verge of having a more hopeful future’
Mr. Guterres: “A door has opened the way to a new era of institutional stability, a State fully capable of protecting its citizens and a system that enables the enormous potential of the Lebanese people develop.” told reporters in Beirut.
The UN chief met with President-elect Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, noting an atmosphere of hope despite the significant challenges ahead.
‘Big challenges ahead’
The General Secretary reiterated his visit on Friday to southern Lebanonwhere there is a fragile ceasefire between Hezbollah rebels and Israeli forces across the territory Blue line the separation largely holds.
Mr. Guterres has witnessed firsthand the devastating human impact and devastation caused by the recent conflict. Displaced residents returning to southern Lebanon, Beirut and the Bekaa Valley found their homes in ruins.
“The need to rebuild is huge. But they are not insurmountable,” he said, adding that the United Nations would increase support for recovery and reconstruction together with Lebanese authorities and partners.
He also expressed hope that Israelis affected by the conflict will soon resume their daily lives.
‘The fragile ceasefire is being maintained’
The Secretary-General called on both sides and those with influence to ensure that the ceasefire commitments are implemented and to use the agreement to resolve outstanding issues.
He noted the phased withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces and the increased deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces south of the Litani River. However, he expressed concern about continued destruction and deadly airstrikes in southern Lebanon.
Mr. Guterres emphasized the need to withdraw the IDF from Lebanese territory, along with the simultaneous deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces throughout southern Lebanon to ensure lasting peace according to United Nations guidelines. Security Council resolution 1701The document was unanimously adopted to end the 2006 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
Regional context
“Finally, the situation in the region is developing rapidly, with an agreement on a ceasefire and release of hostages in Gazaas well as developments in neighboring Syria,” the Secretary-General said, praising the Government and people of Lebanon for their enduring solidarity in hosting large numbers of Syrian and Palestinian refugees.
“That is the spirit of solidarity that the world must show to the Lebanese people.”
While noting that the road ahead is promising but also presents major challenges, including reforms and efforts to improve accountability, the UN chief concluded: “When people Lebanon walks this path together, the United Nations is proud to stand with you. Let’s make the most of this atmosphere of opportunity.”
A new chapter of peace
The Secretary General said that in his previous meeting with President Aoun, he expressed solidarity with the Lebanese people “and our full support for the President, for the future government.”
He also said that it will be possible to strengthen Lebanon’s institutions and create conditions for the Lebanese State to fully protect its citizens.
“And it is possible that with the withdrawal of Israeli forces and with the presence of the Lebanese army throughout the entire territory of Lebanon, a new chapter of peace could open,” Mr. Guterres added.
On the front line of peace
The General Secretary kicked off the trip on Friday in Naqoura with a visit UNIT – United Nations peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon – where he expressed gratitude for the courage and determination of the United Nations peacekeeping forces working in very difficult circumstances.
During his time in the field, the Secretary-General visited several UNIFIL positions that were attacked by Israeli forces last year.
Go here to read our explanation summarizes the mission’s long history and role in peacekeeping.
In his speech to the leadership of the United Nations delegation, Mr. Guterres on Friday said they are not only on Lebanon’s Green Line but also on the frontline for peace and that the UNIFIL mission is the most challenging environment for peacekeepers everywhere.
