By Edwin Nwachukwu
United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert and UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Lt. Gen. Aroldo Lázaro have said that much has changed in Lebanon since the Cessation of Hostilities Understanding came into force in the early hours of 27 November 2024.
They stated this in a joint statement on Sunday, January 26, 2025, saying “violence has dramatically decreased.”
According to them, in many areas of southern Lebanon, hundreds of thousands of people have been able to return to their towns and villages.
The duo added that the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) have shown resolve in deploying to positions from which the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are withdrawing.
“Supported by UNIFIL, the LAF is helping to restore services and facilitating humanitarian access to communities most affected by conflict.
“Moreover, the ongoing government formation process, following the president’s election and the prime minister’s designation, is a critical step in building trust between Lebanese citizens and the State.
“These developments also augur well for prospective support to the full extension of state authority over all Lebanese territory and for the country’s recovery, reconstruction and growth,” they said.
The two leaders noted that the timelines envisaged in the November Understanding have not been met.
“As seen tragically this morning, conditions are not yet in place for the safe return of citizens to their villages along the Blue Line. Displaced communities, already facing a long road to recovery and reconstruction, are, therefore, once again being called on to exercise caution. Also, violations of United Nations Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) continue to be recorded daily.
“Compliance by both parties with their obligations under the November Understanding and the full implementation of resolution 1701 constitute the only way to close the recent, dark chapter of conflict and open a new one, heralding security, stability, and prosperity on both sides of the Blue Line.”
They, however, said the United Nations continues to engage all actors towards this end and remains ready to support any action consistent with resolution 1701 and the efforts of the Implementation Mechanism to achieve the objectives of the November Understanding.
With so much at stake for both Lebanon and Israel, recommitment is urgently needed from all sides.
