Joint Statement of UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon and UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander on the end of the ceasefire agreement

Another delay in this process is not what we hoped would happen, not least because it continues a violation of United Nations Security Council resolution 1701 (2006). This should not, however, overshadow the tangible progress that has been made since the Understanding came into force in late November. The Israel Defense Forces have withdrawn from population centres in southern Lebanon and the Lebanese Armed Forces have deployed in challenging conditions, supporting the return of communities and working to restore critical services. Meanwhile, the new Lebanese President and Government are determined to extend state authority completely in all areas in the south and consolidate stability to prevent conflict from returning to Lebanon. They deserve unwavering support in this endeavour. 

Much of the hard work to realize the commitments made in the November Understanding, and in resolution 1701, is still ahead of us. We call on both parties to meet their obligations. A sense of safety among communities of southern Lebanon, who are grappling with the wide-scale destruction of their villages and towns, as well as residents of northern Israel who had to leave their homes, will not be built overnight and cannot come from a continuation of military operations. Rather, sustained political commitment is the only way forward.

Ultimately, Lebanon and Israel must make the solutions envisaged by the November Understanding and resolution 1701 a reality, on both sides of the Blue Line. The United Nations in Lebanon stands ready to continue supporting all efforts in that direction. 

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