UNIFIL 32d ago

On the occasion of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, UNIFIL held a solemn ceremony at its Naqoura headquarters on the 29th of May. This year’s commemoration came against the backdrop of a significantly deteriorated security situation with intensified hostilities, repeated violations along the Blue Line, and an alarming risk of further escalation. The observance took place at a time of great challenges in south Lebanon. UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Diodato Abagnara said: "I want just to remark that today is a very important day for us because the celebration of the United Nations Peacekeepers’ Day is one of the most important moments in the history of United Nations missions. This is another way to remark that we work for peace, for stability, and one of the most important things for UNIFIL as we are in a very particularly challenging environment. We continue to carry out the UNIFIL mission, not only to report, to monitor any kind of violations, but also to support civilians, to support humanitarian access during a particular time". A central moment of the ceremony was a tribute to fallen peacekeepers. In recent months, six UNIFIL peacekeepers lost their lives in the line of duty. Their sacrifice serves as a reminder of both the risks the peacekeepers face and the importance of the mission. I also want to remark that today is for all peacekeepers that lost their lives with dedication and professionalism for peace and stability, not only in Lebanon, but around the world. And this is the most important thing. For this reason, we will continue to work harder, day by day, in their memory and to create the best condition for peace and stability. Despite the difficult circumstances, UNIFIL has reaffirmed its enduring commitment to its mandate and to the people of south Lebanon.