UN Peace Operations Chief Visits Lebanon Amid Escalating Tensions: Highlights Commitment to Peacekeeping
This November, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, visited peacekeeping missions in the Middle East. His four-day trip came at a tense time for Lebanon and its neighboring countries, marked by several security incidents affecting peacekeepers.
Lacroix expressed concern about ongoing clashes between Hezbollah and the Israeli Defense Forces. He emphasized the need for all parties to ensure the safety of UN personnel and respect UN premises.
During his visit to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in Naqoura, Lacroix met mission leaders and thanked peacekeepers for their commitment. He visited positions along the Blue Line, a 120 km border monitored by UNIFIL, to support efforts to reduce tensions in southern Lebanon.
In Beirut, Lacroix met with key Lebanese officials, including the caretaker Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. He stressed UNIFIL’s commitment to fully implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which aims to halt hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel.
UNIFIL personnel remain dedicated to their peacekeeping tasks, monitoring compliance with Resolution 1701 despite challenging conditions. Lacroix concluded his visit by expressing gratitude to the peacekeepers for their contributions to peace efforts.
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Interview with Jean-Pierre Lacroix, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations
Date: November 2023
Location: New York
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Lacroix. You recently completed a significant visit to the Middle East, focusing on peacekeeping missions in Lebanon and Israel. What were your primary objectives during this trip?
Jean-Pierre Lacroix: Thank you for having me. The primary objective of my visit was to assess the situation on the ground in Lebanon, particularly in light of the recent tensions involving Hezbollah and the Israeli Defense Forces. It was crucial for me to meet with our peacekeepers, understand the challenges they face, and reaffirm the United Nations’ commitment to their safety and the effective implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
Interviewer: You expressed concern about the ongoing clashes between Hezbollah and the Israeli military. Could you elaborate on what you believe are the critical steps needed to reduce these tensions?
Jean-Pierre Lacroix: Certainly. First and foremost, I urge all parties to respect the safety of UN personnel and the sanctity of UN premises. It is essential for the involved parties to engage in constructive dialogue and adhere to the ceasefire established under Resolution 1701. To achieve lasting peace, cooperation among stakeholders is crucial, with a focus on dialogue rather than escalation.
Interviewer: During your visit to UNIFIL in Naqoura, what messages did you convey to the peacekeepers and local officials?
Jean-Pierre Lacroix: I met with mission leaders and personally thanked the peacekeepers for their unwavering commitment to their duties amidst challenging circumstances. I also emphasized that UNIFIL is dedicated to fully implementing Resolution 1701. Engaging with Lebanese officials underscored the importance of collaboration between UNIFIL and the Lebanese government to maintain stability in the region.
Interviewer: You also interacted with several injured peacekeepers during your trip. What was your impression, and how do such experiences impact the morale of UN peacekeeping missions?
Jean-Pierre Lacroix: Meeting with injured peacekeepers from Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Austria was a humbling experience. I was deeply impressed by their resilience and dedication. Their courage serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace, and it underscores the importance of supporting our personnel, both physically and emotionally, as they carry out their essential mission.
Interviewer: After Lebanon, you visited Israel and engaged with Israeli officials. What was the key message you shared regarding Resolution 1701 during those discussions?
Jean-Pierre Lacroix: My discussions in Israel focused on the critical need to uphold Resolution 1701. I reiterated that the stability of the region relies on mutual respect for this resolution and encouraged a commitment to ensuring security in the area. It is imperative that all parties remain engaged in efforts to prevent hostilities and work towards long-term peace.
Interviewer: Following your trip, what are your hopes for the future regarding peacekeeping in the Middle East and the role of the UN?
Jean-Pierre Lacroix: I remain hopeful that current diplomatic efforts will yield positive outcomes. The UN’s role in supporting peace efforts is vital, and we are exploring potential assistance for returning civilians and rebuilding efforts in Lebanon. Our focus is on fostering a climate conducive to dialogue and addressing the humanitarian needs of those affected by conflict.
Interviewer: Thank you, Mr. Lacroix, for your insights and for shedding light on the critical issues facing peacekeeping efforts in the region.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important matters. Peace in the Middle East is a shared goal, and the UN remains committed to making it a reality.
Lacroix also met with several injured peacekeepers, including those from Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Austria. He praised their resilience and dedication to their duties.
After Lebanon, Lacroix traveled to Israel to visit the UN Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO). He met with Israeli officials and reiterated the importance of upholding Resolution 1701.
Following his trip, Lacroix briefed the media in New York. He expressed hope that current diplomatic efforts will lead to positive outcomes and mentioned potential UNIFIL support for returning civilians and rebuilding efforts.