Sewing Machines for a Better Future UNIFIL 2024-09-11 | A recent UNIFIL Quick Impact Project (QIP) supplied sewing and embroidery machines to the workshop at the Imam Sadr Foundation in Tyre, south Lebanon. The Foundation provides training courses for women and youth who are eager to learn new skills. The goal of this project is to improve the participants’ financial and living conditions by helping them find a job or start a small business. While large factories and corporations dominate the embroidery and tailoring industry, traditional craftsmanship in sewing still survives. By integrating digital concepts and modern techniques, this workshop ensures that the art of sewing remains accessible. Any woman or girl interested in acquiring these skills is welcome to receive training here at the Imam Sadr Foundation. Currently, due to a significant population displacement from areas close to the Blue Line, the Foundation is welcoming displaced women to the training courses to provide them with new skills. This empowers them to eventually achieve financial independence and resume normal lives. Aya Sweid from Dhaira village:“I learned how to use the sewing machine and do stitches and embroidery using the digital embroidery machine. Now I know how to shorten and mend certain pieces of clothing. When the situation calms down in the south and I return home, I would like to buy a sewing machine and perhaps open a small tailoring shop and receive customers. This way I hope to help my family financially. “ UNIFIL has been implementing Quick Impact Projects for the benefit of the people of south Lebanon since 2007. Such support, especially the kind that builds the professional capacity and skills of people, is an important step in helping the population find new opportunities and avenues for self sufficiency.
UNIFIL Provides Free Medical Support UNIFIL 2024-09-02 | UNIFIL's Republic of Korea Battalion (ROKBATT) provides medical support to local communities, where local people, young and old, come to receive free medical aid available to them on a weekly basis.In fact, since 2007, more than 150,000 people of south Lebanon have received medical care from the South Korean Battalion. UNIFIL also offers free medical aid to the people of south Lebanon, provided by the French, Ghanaian, Indian, Indonesian,Irish, Italian, Malaysian, Nepalese, Polish and Spanish Battalions.
Lebanese Armed Forces & UNIFIL train on handling unexploded ordnances (UXOs) UNIFIL 2024-08-21 | The Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL train on how to deal with artillery shells, missiles, and other projectiles that have landed but did not explode. These UXOs present a danger that has increased significantly throughout south Lebanon since 8 October 2023. Warrant Officer Ricardo Monreal, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team Leader of UNIFIL's Spanish Battalion: Since 8 October (2023), we can find more ammunitions in the terrain, because they are shooting from both sides and we can find rockets, projectiles and different kinds of ammunition. Lt. Col. Paras Shah of UNIFIL's Nepalese Battalion: This training is important as for the UNIFIL mandate. It develops the capacity of the Lebanese Armed Forces. This training helps to enhance the operational capabilities between the UNIFIL units and the Lebanese Armed Forces. Understanding how to approach unexploded weapons allows the Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL to protect the local population and themselves as they carry out their work.
UNIFILs Daily Patrols Continue Without Interruption! UNIFIL 2024-08-12 | Despite the challenges, UNIFIL continues its crucial operations in south Lebanon. Peacekeepers from 49 countries carry out over 400 daily activities aimed at decreasing tensions. 20% of all patrols are conducted together with the Lebanese Armed Forces.UNIFIL remains committed to upholding Resolution 1701 and emphasizes the need for diplomatic solutions.
Solar Streetlights to Light up Yanuh Municipality UNIFIL 2024-08-08 | 100 solar streetlights were donated by UNIFIL’s Italian Battalion to make Yanuh Municipality in south Lebanon a safer place for both pedestrians and vehicles. This solar street light project, part of UNIFIL’s Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) efforts, covers approximately 3 kilometers of the main road that connects the towns of Wadi Jilo, Yanuh and Maarake.The solar streetlight system is very simple but efficient, being composed of a solar panel, an LED light and a battery. The lights automatically turn on at dusk and off at sunrise.UNIFIL has supported southern communities with numerous solar infrastructure projects and continues to assist as well with education and medical assistance wherever it can.
In visit to Lebanon, UN peacekeeping chief urges de-escalation UNIFIL 2024-08-02 | NAQOURA, 02 August 2024 – UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix today concluded the Lebanon leg of his trip to the Middle East, during which he strongly stressed the need for de-escalation and return to a cessation of hostilities. In meetings with senior Lebanese officials earlier in the week, Mr. Lacroix highlighted the risk of a wider conflagration and called for maximum restraint and a cessation of the ongoing intensified exchanges of fire across the Blue Line. While in Lebanon where he arrived on Tuesday 30 July, the UN peacekeeping chief also met with members of the diplomatic corps as well as UN officials and peacekeepers. During his visit to the UNIFIL Headquarters in Naqoura and its area of operations, UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Lt. Gen. Aroldo Lázaro provided Mr. Lacroix with latest updates on the situation in the area and along the Blue Line, and briefed him on the mission’s best efforts to prevent further escalation. Mr. Lacroix also interacted with peacekeepers in Naqoura, Shama and Ibl el-Saqi, in south Lebanon “I commend the role played by the UNIFIL leadership and peacekeepers in ensuring liaison between the parties, mitigating the risk of miscalculation and preventing further escalation in these very challenging times,” he said. “Contacts with authorities on both sides must be intensified and sustained, encouraging a return to the cessation of hostilities and a recommitment to Resolution 1701 as a path toward a long-term diplomatic solution.”. “Current events further demonstrate that this resolution is even more relevant now,” he added. “It continues to serve as the appropriate framework to achieve progress toward a permanent ceasefire.” He assured that the UN will continue to support the parties and facilitate any efforts for a lasting peace and stability across the Blue Line.
Under Secretary General Jean-Pierre Lacroix visits South Litani Sector Commander and UNIFIL HQ. UNIFIL 2024-08-02 | UN Peace Operations Chief Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix met with Brig. Gen. Edgard Lawandos, South Litani Sector Commander. He stressed the need to support the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in extending their authority in the south, as per Res 1701. UNIFIL remains committed to strengthening LAF capacity in the area.Mr. Lacroix was also received by Head of Mission and Force Commander Lt Gen Aroldo Lázaro at UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura, south Lebanon. Lt Gen Lázaro updated Mr. Lacroix on the situation across the Blue Line and emphasized UNIFIL’s efforts to prevent further escalation and discussed the challenges UNIFIL's peacekeepers are facing during this difficult period.
Under Secretary Jean-Pierre Lacroix visits Lebanese Authorities. UNIFIL 2024-08-02 | United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix visits Lebanese Authorities in Beirut. Mr. Lacroix met with Lebanese Speaker Nabih Berri, Prime Minister Najib Miqati, Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdallah Bou Habib, Minister of Defense Maurice Sleem, Lebanese Armed Forces Commander Gen. Joseph Aoun, and Head of General Security Maj.-Gen. Elias Al-Baysari. They discussed the current situation in south Lebanon and the crucial work of UNIFIL. The UN Peacekeeping chief reiterated the urgency of de-escalation and stressed the need for all parties to fully recommit to Resolution 1701 and return immediately to a cessation of hostilities.
UNIFIL supplies crucial tools to the Tyre Water Bureau! UNIFIL 2024-07-25 | UNIFIL continues to support government institutions in charge of basic services for the people. Recently UNIFIL provided equipment, supplies and spare parts for the Tyre Water Bureau, specifically for the maintenance teams. The maintenance teams are doing a tremendous job of providing this basic need, ensuring the constant supply of water for the local population. This equipment increases their effectiveness in providing better services, especially since Tyre has seen a significant influx of internally displaced people from the areas along the Blue Line and the demand for water has greatly increased.
Supporting Displaced People of South Lebanon UNIFIL 2024-07-16 | Imad, and thousands of others living close to the Blue Line in south Lebanon, had no choice but to leave his life and home behind and seek refuge in the city of Tyre.Since 8 October 2023 the exchanges of fire across the Blue Line have led to much destruction, forcing almost one hundred thousand people to be displaced.In Tyre, hosted by the Union of Municipalities, UNIFIL's Italian and Ghanaian peacekeepers, alongside the Lebanese Red Cross, organize free medical aid for internally displaced people, like Imad.Medical aid is part of a series of support projects UNIFIL is implementing for the benefit of southerners during these difficult times.
Peacekeepers Provide Free Medical Aid in South East Lebanon UNIFIL 2024-07-09 | Life has become more and more difficult for the people of south Lebanon since 8 October 2023. Southerners often cannot leave their homes or can’t find any medical support. But peacekeepers from UNIFIL’s Indian Battalion continue their regular dental and medical camps, inviting the local to come and receive free medical aid.Ismail Hamdan, a resident of Shebaa town sums it up: “The Lebanese people, especially in the south, are experiencing a tragedy. And despite the difficult circumstances that we are going through, the UNIFIL peacekeepers continue to come here, even under shelling and under bombardment, carrying a huge burden, which no one else would do. “
The VETS that keep the animals healthy! UNIFIL 2024-06-19 | The UNIFIL Indian contingent has long been providing veterinary assistance to local communities in its area of responsibility, spanning across 100 square kilometres in south-eastern Lebanon.The ongoing exchanges of fire between Lebanese territory and Israel have claimed too many lives, inflicted life-changing injuries, and caused significant damage to houses and public infrastructure along the Blue Line. The economy has also suffered enormously, causing hardship to many residents of south Lebanon for whom agriculture has long been a critical source of livelihood. The cows and sheep roaming the green pastures along the Blue Line are a vital source of food and income for local people and UNIFIL does its best, under the circumstances to support the farmers with medicine and vaccinations for their animals.
UNIFIL hands out FREE TABLETS to students! UNIFIL 2024-06-10 | During these challenging times, UNIFIL recognized the urgent need for educational support in public schools within its area of operations. As in-person attendance became difficult, the focus shifted to enabling online learning. UNIFIL facilitated the distribution of 149 tablets to three schools in the Arqoub area in southern Lebanon. This initiative aims to ensure that students can continue their education remotely, bridging the gap caused by displacement.
What does it take to have clean drinking water?? UNIFIL 2024-06-06 | When the town of Baflay in south Lebanon asked for assistance UNIFIL stepped in to support the municipality with the funding and installation of a solar powered water filtration system. Watch to see how the community of Baflay is benefitting from access to clean, potable, low cost water.
In Honor of UNIFIL Peacekeepers in South Lebanon UNIFIL 2024-05-29 | ON PEACEKEEPERS’ DAY, UNIFIL PAYS TRIBUTE TO PEACEKEEPERS’ SACRIFICES AND URGES STEPS TOWARDS A DIPLOMATIC SOLUTION (Naqoura, 29 May 2024)—UNIFIL today marked the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, an annual event to honour the commitment and sacrifice of women and men serving for peace around the world. On this day, UNIFIL normally hosts a gathering of peacekeepers; national, local, and religious officials; and members of the Lebanese Armed Forces and other security agencies at our Naqoura headquarters. The mission did not hold an event today due to the security situation and the ongoing exchanges of fire in the south. “UNIFIL peacekeepers from almost 50 countries are on the ground in our area of operations, focused on preventing escalation of the fighting and avoiding an all-out war,” said Head of Mission and Force Commander Lieutenant General Aroldo Lázaro. “I am proud of the men and women who continue to carry out their mandated tasks in such difficult conditions, amidst ongoing exchanges of fire.” Peacekeepers continue to perform their duties to help implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701. At the same time, they are also supporting communities and residents, ensuring humanitarian access to those most affected, providing shelter when civilians are caught in the crossfire and assisting communities in the South with medical, dental, veterinary, and educational assistance, and ensuring humanitarian access to the most affected. “The death and destruction we have seen on both sides of the Blue Line is heartbreaking,” said Lieutenant General Lázaro. “Too many lives have been lost and disrupted. Thousands of people remain displaced and have lost their homes and their livelihoods. As peacekeepers, we recommit each day to our work to restore stability. We urge all parties and all actors to cease their fire, recommit to Resolution 1701, and begin the work towards a diplomatic solution, which is the only way to bring a return of stability and resolve this situation.” Peacekeepers’ Day is a day to remember the sacrifices of the men and women serving for peace, UNIFIL’s Head of Mission and Force Commander noted. “As we mourn those who have fallen for the cause of peace – including Malaysian Sergeant Faridah Abd Rahman, who passed away just a few days ago – we are grateful for their contributions, which will not be forgotten,” said the UNIFIL head. Almost 4,400 UN peacekeepers have lost their lives in missions around the world since 1948. Over 330 of these men and women served with UNIFIL. In 2002, 29 May was designated as the International Day of UN Peacekeepers to honour the professionalism, dedication, and courage of the military and civilian peacekeepers serving in UN peacekeeping operations, and to remember those who lost their lives for the cause of peace. The date was chosen to commemorate the establishment of the first peacekeeping mission, the UN Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), which has more than 50 observers currently working with UNIFIL in south Lebanon.
When you think outside the box… UNIFIL 2024-05-24 | Hit hard by the economic downturn, Ali Yaseen, the Mayor of Majdal Silim, decided to experiment with a new idea as an option for his community to be more prosperous and independent in the coming years.Back in 2019 he was inspired by UNIFIL’s Nepalese Contingent and the Nepalese culture of tea growing and consumption.So, the community of Majdal Silim started the first tea plantation project in south Lebanon.
Raging Flames, Smoke Filled Containers & Impossible Crawl Spaces UNIFIL 2024-05-16 | UNIFIL support to the Lebanese Civil Defense in the south of the country continued last week with the mission’s French peacekeepers training with Civil Defense firefighters of Tyre. The head of Civil Defense Centre of Tyre, Ali Safieddine, said the training is important especially for new recruits to gain necessary skills before their mobilization in emergency and rescue missions. “These young guys who sacrifice and fight and leave their homes, they are the first responders in their work, during accidents, fires, rescue operations and first aid,” said Mr. Safieddine. He emphasized that their work is all the more critical now as the exchanges of fire across the Blue Line runs into the eighth month, affecting tens of thousands of people in south Lebanon. “We are in a real scenario here, with a fire in the building and trapped people inside. You saw how we entered to put out the fire, and then rescued the people inside,” he said. The training scenarios simulated extreme situations, as in negotiating passage through burning and smoke-filled environments and confined spaces. The fire brigade chief of the UNIFIL French Contingent, Chief Warrant Officer Christophe, said the goal of the training was to make sure that members of the Civil Defense hone and build on their skills by training in a confined space. “We immediately felt in harmony and were very well received. We felt that we are truly soul mates, and the training here demonstrated it, we were at ease together,” said the Chief Warrant Officer. Lebanese Civil Defense is a public civil emergency service that carries out firefighting, search and rescue activities across the country. UNIFIL’s cooperation with this state entity dates back to 2008 and has encompassed a plethora of support interventions ranging from equipping of the existing civil defense facilities to facilitation of joint exercises and training courses. The facility where last week’s training occurred was set up last year with support of UNIFIL’s Italian contingent. The mission’s French contingent stepped in to equip it later. In the recent past, the mission’s French peacekeepers have ramped up their support to various Civil Defense units across south Lebanon with, among others, first aid training and kits, rescue training, firefighting training and equipment.
UNIFIL head reassures mayors of south-eastern Lebanon of continued support UNIFIL 2024-04-29 | Meeting mayors and religious authorities from seven municipalities of south-eastern Lebanon yesterday, UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Lieutenant General Aroldo Lázaro thanked attendees for their continued support for peacekeepers and reassured them of the mission’s continued assistance in the face of evolving challenges.During the meeting, held at a UNIFIL base in Ibl el-Saqi as the exchanges of fire across the Blue Line approach the seventh month, Lt. Gen. Lázaro heard their views and concerns about the situation. He heard that the current situation has further exacerbated economic and social hardships of the people, tens of thousands of whom have seen their lives upended as they have left villages near the Blue Line.“We are concerned about the continued exchange of fire across the Blue Line and its detrimental impact on civilians’ lives, well-being, properties, and livelihoods,” he said.Lt. Gen. Lázaro added that UNIFIL will continue to support these communities, and others in south Lebanon, by addressing their immediate and urgent needs and by working to return calm and stability in the area.UNIFIL and its peacekeepers have been supporting communities with medical, dental, veterinary, and educational assistance, while ensuring humanitarian access to the most affected. Since early October 2023, UNIFIL has facilitated 25 humanitarian missions to the hard-to-reach areas close to the 120-kilometre Blue Line.“We recognize that the exchanges of fire across have affected the economic and financial situation faced by the country,” said Lt. Gen. Lázaro. “We can’t replace the Lebanese Government or the humanitarian and development organizations, but we will continue to do what we can while we work to facilitate de-escalation and return stability to the Blue Line.”Today’s meeting is part of the UNIFIL head’s continued engagement with communities affected by the ongoing exchanges of fire across the mission’s area of operation in south Lebanon.According to UN agencies, more than 90,000 people have been displaced on the Lebanese side of the Blue Line. In addition, 1,324 casualties have been reported, including 340 deaths, as of 18 April 2024.
UNIFIL and Tiro Association bring fun and creativity to displaced children UNIFIL 2024-04-19 | An inspiring collaboration between UNIFIL and the Tiro Association brings joy and creativity to displaced children through arts and crafts workshops. This project specifically targets the most vulnerable members of the community - children and youth.
UNIFIL peacekeepers provide medical care in Al Hinniyah village UNIFIL 2024-04-05 | UNIFIL Chinese peacekeepers share their work helping people and healing the injured in the mission area. They provided medical consultations and treatment to residents of Al Hinniyah village, who have had difficulties accessing medical services in recent months.
UNIFIL supports Lebanese Civil Defense with rescue equipment UNIFIL 2024-03-08 | UNIFIL recently supported the Lebanese Civil Defense of Tyre with emergency and rescue equipment such as cutter and spreader, water pumps and rescue ropes. The support is vital as the south Lebanon has been impacted by the five months of daily exchanges of fire and Civil Defense volunteers have been involved in rescue operations. The Lebanese Civil Defense is a public civil emergency service that carries out fire-fighting, search and rescue activities, casualty transportation and marine rescue operations.
UNIFIL Head meets with Tyre district mayors to hear their concerns UNIFIL 2024-02-21 | UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Lieutenant General Aroldo Lázaro, accompanied by UNIFIL officials, met with mayors from around the Tyre Caza today to hear their concerns and talk about the needs of their residents as the exchanges of fire continue in south Lebanon.“It is paramount to have these strong relationships with all of you, between the community and UNIFIL, in all the area of operations,” the UNIFIL chief told the gathered mayors. “We continue our cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces and the local communities.”Highlighting the support that UNIFIL and its contingents have provided to first responders, civil defence, schools, health care agencies, women, children, and municipalities, he noted that the mission is coordinating with UN bodies, embassies, and NGOs to help get aid where it is needed.According to UN agencies, 80,000 people have been displaced on the Lebanese side of the Blue Line, with about three-quarters of them relocated to the Tyre caza (district). While most are living with family or renting houses, about 200 families are living in shelters and receiving direct assistance.The ongoing exchange of fire has caused immense hardship for all those displaced on both sides of the Blue Line, with women and children particularly vulnerable. The daily violence and uncertainty about the future have led to fear, anxiety, and depression. Many children who have left their home communities are no longer in school. The sudden influx of population has also strained local infrastructure and services, which is why many communities have had to reach out to UNIFIL for help.“We are working very hard with the parties to avoid a situation of escalation,” the UNIFIL head said. “UN Security Council resolution 1701 is the framework. We have to support the government of Lebanon and the LAF for the implementation of 1701. This is what we are trying to do every day.”
UNIFIL Head visits peacekeepers in several UN positions in southeast Lebanon UNIFIL 2024-02-20 | “Over the weekend I visited peacekeepers in several UN positions in southeast Lebanon. Despite the circumstances, they remain committed to patrolling and other tasks to restore security and stability. I am immensely proud of the work our peacekeepers are doing each and every day.” -UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Lieutenant General Aroldo Lázaro
UN Peacekeeping chief wraps up Lebanon leg of regional trip UNIFIL 2024-01-13 | United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix concluded a four-day visit to Lebanon yesterday. This was part of a regular visit to peacekeeping missions in the Middle East, though it came in the context of high tension along the Blue Line between Lebanon and Israel.During the visit, Mr. Lacroix discussed the important role of UNIFIL in de-escalating tension along the Blue Line.“All actors must cease fire, recommit to resolution 1701, and work toward a durable political and diplomatic solution,” he stressed. “This is the only way to achieve a lasting peace.”During the visit, Mr. Lacroix met with senior Lebanese officials including Speaker Nabih Berri, Prime Minister Najib Miqati, Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdallah Bou Habib, Minister of Defense Maurice Sleem, Lebanese Armed Forces Commander General Joseph Aoun, and Head of General Security Major General Elias Al-Baysari.He also met with ambassadors of the countries sending troops to serve with UNIFIL, ambassadors of the Permanent Members of the UN Security Council, as well as other members of the diplomatic community.His central message in those meetings was the need to de-escalate current tensions across the Blue Line.“We are deeply concerned by the exchanges of fire across the Blue Line we have seen since the 8th of October, indicating potential for a wider escalation, which must be avoided,” said Mr. Lacroix, as he concluded the Lebanon leg of his tour. “We continue to urge all actors to cease fire, as each day this continues increases the risk of a larger and more devastating conflict.”Since the exchanges of fire began, dozens of civilians and journalists have been injured or killed. UNIFIL positions have been hit more than two dozen times, with three peacekeepers injured.“This is not acceptable and must end,” said Mr. Lacroix. “We once again remind the parties, and actors involved in the exchanges of fire, of their obligation to avoid harm to civilians and of the inviolability of UN personnel and premises.”Mr. Lacroix commended the perseverance demonstrated by the more than 10,000 UNIFIL peacekeepers in the face of these challenges.“In the current context, UNIFIL has continued all efforts to implement its mandate despite challenges on a scale unprecedented since 2006,” he said. “The mission and its peacekeepers remain steadfast in their continued support for a long-term solution to the conflict."
UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander: End of Year Message UNIFIL 2023-12-30 | The year 2023 has seen enormous challenges for south Lebanon, especially in recent months. Since then, we have all had to adapt to the new situation. Today, our peacekeepers are focused on preventing escalation and safeguarding civilian lives, while maintaining their own safety and security so they can continue their important work.We undertook over 450 patrols and other activities each and every day, some of them together with the Lebanese Armed Forces. Since the 8th of October, we have refocused our efforts on patrols to monitor the situation and prevent greater escalation.Our close work with the Lebanese Armed Forces continued this year, and is more important than ever. We all have a responsibility to ensure the support to the implementation of Resolution 1701, and our work with the LAF is key to long-term stability in south Lebanon.In 2023, our peacekeepers undertook over 4000 projects, donations, and activities in health care, education, agriculture, energy, and more. We have continued our activities to support the communities we live and work in, despite the current challenges.2023 is ending in a more difficult situation than anyone could have expected. UNIFIL is deeply concerned by the destruction, deaths, and injuries we have seen since the 8th of October. As peacekeepers, we continue to urge everyone to cease their fire to avoid a greater escalation, which would mean more harm to communities along the Blue Line.There is a path back to stability. I firmly believe that diplomacy can lead to the possible solution, and UNIFIL continues to liaise and coordinate with the parties to create the best conditions to advance toward that goal. It will take hard work and compromise on all sides. But it is the only way to achieve a lasting peace.And that is my wish for 2024.Happy new year. May it bring peace to all of us.
A Much-Needed Delivery UNIFIL 2023-12-01 | Last week, in the midst of continued exchanges of fire and heightened tension across the Blue Line, 144 tons of flour were delivered to several communities in South Lebanon by UNIFIL's Polish Contingent.Funded by the Polish NGO Aid to the Church in Need , the flour donation project has been in the works for at least three months but the timing of the delivery could not have been better.Not only has Lebanon been suffering from the economic crisis but the sudden outbreak of violence and daily exchanges of fire across the Blue Line on 8 October has increased the daily challenges for the people living in south Lebanon. The Polish peacekeepers, who are part of the IRISHPOLBATT contingent, have worked hard alongside the Polish “Aid to the Church in Need” NGO and UNIFIL's logistics branch to ship this generous amount of flour from the Poland Mills to Beirut port and transport it south to their area of responsibility along the Blue Line.LT Pawel Zielinski of UNIFIL's Polish Civil Military Coordination (CIMIC) team explained that the flour was shipped from Poland in mid-September, which gave his team the time needed to work with the Lebanese Ministry of Trade and Economy to process the necessary approvals and certificates to allow the flour to enter the country and be used for consumption by the public.Over several days 5760 bags of flour, each weighing 25 kg, were distributed to 30 villages, reaching thousands of people in need, including many displaced southerners who abandoned their homes because of the bombing and shelling in and around their villages close to the Blue Line. The distribution was organized in coordination with the Union of Municipalities of Bint Jbeil in South Lebanon.Mr. Ali Saad, IRISHPOLBATT local coordinator and cultural advisor, summed up the feelings of the Union of Municipalities and the local population when he expressed his appreciation: "I would like to thank the Polish peacekeepers for their ongoing support to our local community in many projects and especially about the flour now, as it came in a very sensitive and needed time due to the bombardment."For the Polish CIMIC team this has been a very challenging but hugely rewarding project, while also being completely different than the water, electricity and educational support they regularly provide. "I would like to say that the entire Polish CIMIC team felt honoured that in such a moment of crisis and the real threat of war in the region, we were able to distribute the flour, which will contribute to food production by the people most in need in southern Lebanon," said LT Zielinski.
Fallen Polish Peacekeeper Honoured at Memorial Ceremony in Beirut UNIFIL 2023-11-24 | This morning, UNIFIL and Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) paid tribute to the life and work of Master Sergeant Tomasz Fąfara of UNIFIL’s Polish contingent.Master Sergeant Fąfara passed away of natural causes on 21 November 2023 while serving for peace in south Lebanon.At a solemn ceremony at Rafik Hariri International Airport, UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Lieutenant-General Aroldo Lázaro and representatives of the LAF laid wreaths in Master Sergeant Fąfara’s honour and awarded him posthumous UN and LAF medals.“Master Sergeant Tomasz Fąfara was a remarkable member of the Polish national support element deployed at UNP 2-45, who had pride in the work he was doing supporting his fellow mates in the front line, and pride in the fact he was representing his country, Poland, and its armed forces far away from his homeland,” said Lieutenant-General Lázaro.Master Sergeant Fąfara joined the Polish Armed Forces in 2007 as a member of the 3rd Radio Engineering Battalion in Wrocław. After graduating from NCO school in 2009, he commanded the command vehicle in 10. Armoured Cavalry Brigade in Świętoszów, and was promoted several times in the Brigade. He arrived in Lebanon on 21 September 2023, serving as the Clerk and Deputy Head of the Polish Contingent, and was known as a talented athlete.Since 1978, over 330 peacekeepers have died while serving for peace in south Lebanon.
Statement from Head of Mission and Force Commander Aroldo Lázaro UNIFIL 2023-10-12 | Despite concerning events in the past days, the situation in UNIFIL’s area of operations remains stable, but volatile. Exchanges of fire between Lebanese territory and Israel have fortunately not escalated into conflict.Our peacekeepers remain in their positions and on task. We have increased patrols and other activities to maintain stability, coordinating this work with the Lebanese Armed Forces. We have actively engaged with authorities on both sides of the Blue Line to de-escalate the situation and avoid misunderstandings.Peacekeepers continue their essential work.Our main goal is to help avoid confrontation between Lebanon and Israel, and any event that brings conflict closer is a concern. We are working 24/7 to ensure this does not happen.
On the International Day of Peace, UNIFIL stands ready to help UNIFIL 2023-09-21 | Peacekeepers wearing uniforms from 49 different countries expressed their commitment to peace and stability as they marked the International Day of Peace in Naqoura, south Lebanon today.Hosted by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) at its headquarters, the ceremony brought together Lebanese political representatives, including Deputy Speaker Elias Bou Saab; local authorities; religious leaders; the Lebanese Armed Forces; security forces; UN officials, including Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka; and members of the international community.“As our name says, we are peacekeepers – we keep the peace, but we do not bestow it,” UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Aroldo Lázaro told the gathered crowd. “We keep the peace that the parties have each given space for, have each worked to maintain in their own ways. But whenever it is threatened, UNIFIL is there, ready to help.”Major General Lázaro and Brigadier General Mounir Shehade, representing the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), laid wreaths at the cenotaph in memory of the over 300 UNIFIL peacekeepers who have lost their lives while serving in south Lebanon since 1978.The UNIFIL head emphasized the mission’s strong partnership with the Lebanese government and armed forces.“We are here at the invitation of the Lebanese government, who have been our hosts for over forty-five years,” he said. “We coordinate closely with the Lebanese Armed Forces, conductingpatrols with them and on our own, to help the government someday exercise its authority over the entirety of this beautiful country.”He also stressed the importance of restraint and UNIFIL’s role in decreasing tensions.“The danger of miscalculation remains, a danger that could jeopardize the cessation of hostilities and lead us to conflict,” he said. “It is important for the parties to bear this in mind, and to use our liaison and coordination mechanisms to deconflict situations and decrease tensions. The full implementation of UN Resolution 1701 remains a shared responsibility and the commitment of the parties is necessary to advance towards a long-term solution.”During the ceremony, military staff officers were awarded with the UN Peacekeeping Medal in recognition of their participation in the mission’s work. As is customary, white doves were released at UNIFIL’s cenotaph to symbolize peace.UNIFIL also launched a Telegram channel today as another platform for people to receive information about peacekeepers’ work in real time.The International Day of Peace was established by the UN General Assembly in 1981. It is dedicated to ceasefire and non-violence and is an occasion during which all promote tolerance, justice, and human rights. Each year on this day, the United Nations invites all nations and people to honour a 24-hour cessation of hostilities and to commemorate the day through activities that promote peace.
Returning Land Now free of deadly mines UNIFIL 2023-08-15 | Land returned to farmers after two years of demining. Mess el Jebal, south Lebanon, 2023. UNIFIL deminers destroyed 4,000 anti-personnel mines to clear 44,000 square meters of farmland and returned it to its owners who had not set foot on their property since the 1970s. The collaboration between the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS), UNIFIL, and the Lebanese Mine Action Center (LMAC) helps to realize Lebanon’s vision for “Lebanese communities to prosper free from the threat of explosive ordnance.”
Day to Night with a UNIFIL Peacekeeper UNIFIL 2023-08-11 | Day to Night: Explore the typical day of a Cambodian woman Peacekeeper supervising demining operations in south Lebanon. UNIFIL's dedicated deminers undertake the vital mission of clearing extensive minefields and unexploded ordnance.
Extinguishing a Fire together - Ebel AL Saqi, south Lebanon UNIFIL 2023-08-07 | A forest fire broke out near the outskirts of Ebl es Saqi, south Lebanon. See how the Lebanese Civil Defense, UNIFIL peacekeepers, and the Lebanese Armed Forces worked together to promptly control and extinguish the fire, demonstrating effective teamwork in action.
UNIFIL honours deceased Ghanaian Peacekeeper UNIFIL 2023-08-04 | UNIFIL and the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) today paid last respects to WOII Abubakari Ibrahim of the Ghanaian Contingent, who lost his life in a tragic vehicle accident on 28 July, while on duty in south Lebanon.At a somber ceremony at Rafik Hariri International Airport, UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Aroldo Lázaro and representatives of the Lebanese Armed Forces laid wreaths to honor WOII Abubakari and posthumously awarded him the UN and LAF medals."Warrant Officer Abubakari Ibrahim proudly represented his country and his armed forces in UNIFIL. He has been a remarkable member of the Ghanaian Battalion, a unit that has made exemplary efforts to contribute to stability in this region," said UNIFIL Head of Mission Major General Lázaro. "We thank his family and his country for giving us the privilege and honor to serve with him and for his contribution to the UNIFIL mission."WOII Abubakari was a dedicated and professional soldier who served with diligence and pride in the Ghana Armed Forces for 19 years. As a veteran peacekeeper, he had served with the United Nations peacekeeping missions in Congo, Libya, South Sudan and had two tours with UNIFIL. Prior to his third deployment with UNIFIL, he was a Jungle Expert Trainer and a Physical Training Instructor of the Ghana Armed Forces Jungle Warfare School. During his tour of duty in UNIFIL, he displayed the highest standards of professionalism with his in-depth knowledge, skill, and modest attitude.WOII Abubakari Ibrahim is survived by his wife and children.Since UNIFIL’s establishment in 1978, over 320 peacekeepers have died while serving for peace in south Lebanon.
UNIFIL Vehicle patrols throughout south Lebanon UNIFIL 2023-07-21 | UNIFIL Ghanbatt peacekeepers conduct vehicle patrols every day, rain or shine. Daily patrols allow UNIFIL to monitor and report on the situation and contribute to maintaining security and stability in the south and along the Blue line.
Free Medical Home Visits – by UNIFIL Chinese Medical Company UNIFIL 2023-07-21 | For many villagers in remote communities of south Lebanon traveling to see a doctor can be challenging, if not impossible. This is why UNIFIL’s Chinese Medical Company is making house calls for people who are unable to travel and are in need of medical assistance. The Chinese peacekeepers, in coordination with UNIFIL’s Civil Affairs and a local NGO, provide free diagnostics, treatments and medicine, while visiting patients in their homes.
Day to Night with a UNIFIL peacekeeper UNIFIL 2023-07-14 | Day to Night: Follow a German peacekeeper onboard UNIFIL’s Maritime Task Force (MTF) ship “Erfurt”, starting his day on the ship’s bridge, hailing commercial vessels entering Lebanese Territorial Waters and leading an exercise with other MTF ships. UNIFIL’s Maritime Task Force hails vessels entering Lebanese waters and refers suspect ships to the Lebanese Navy for inspections.
Sabes Español? UNIFIL 2023-06-27 | "It is more than learning a foreign language, it is a platform for educational and social discussions and interaction with the Spanish peacekeepers in our area," said First Lieutenant Claire El-Khoury; an Internal Security Forces soldier attending the Spanish classes in Marjayoun. The Spanish language classes, conducted by UNIFIL's Spanish peacekeepers and organized by the Civil Affairs office in UNIFIL, and are carried out by every Spanish battalion rotation, reinforce close ties between the local residents of the South and the Spanish peacekeepers.
A Day to Remember UNIFIL 2023-06-27 | 69 students from the American Community School (ACS) in Beirut visited the UNIFIL’s Maritime Task Force ship “BNS SANGRAM” from Bangladesh. Curiosity and excitement accompanied the students as they were given special access to the ship by the Bangladeshi peacekeepers. From the bridge to the engine room, the students were introduced to the functions of the vessel, but also learned about the work that UNIFIL’s Maritime Task Force does at sea and in support of the Lebanese Navy.
Photo Exhibition Celebrates 75 Years of UN Peacekeeping and 45 Years of UNIFIL in South Lebanon UNIFIL 2023-06-19 | The daily work and efforts of peacekeepers to maintain calm and stability in south Lebanon over the past 45 years was the subject of a unique photography exhibition at Beit Beirut, the historical building and museum in the heart of the Lebanese capital.Upon entering the exhibition space, visitors were introduced to the mission’s origins through a selection of mostly black and white images dating back 45 years to 1978, when UNIFIL was first established. The visual journey continued into the main space, showcasing recent photographs of UNIFIL’s daily activities in support of its mandate, including vehicle, foot and air patrols, observation posts, and naval patrols by UNIFIL’s Maritime Task Force. UNIFIL conducts over 450 daily operational activities throughout its area of operations in south Lebanon, from the Litani River to the Blue Line – a line set by the United Nations in 2000 to confirm the withdrawal of Israeli forces.Moving on through a passage lined with the 48 flags of UNIFIL’s current troop-contributing countries, visitors arrived in the second space of the exhibition. Here the photos provided an insight into the mission’s support to the people and local communities of south Lebanon, along with its work to clear landmines from farmers’ fields and other land close to the Blue Line. Since the passing of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 in 2006, UNIFIL and its peacekeepers from different countries have been actively supporting local people with a myriad of projects aimed at improving lives, health, education and economic conditions.Both exhibition spaces featured videos on TV screens that mirrored the themes depicted on the photographs, while further highlighting UNIFIL’s support and cooperation with its strategic partner, the Lebanese Armed Forces, including the mission’s Maritime Task Force’s work with the Lebanese Navy.UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Aroldo Lázaro opened the exhibition with an address to the guests in which he explained that the photos depict the work and individual tasks that peacekeepers perform on land, in the air and at sea in support of long-term peace.He went on to add that “they also capture the humanity behind the work that we do. The humanity of the individual peacekeepers you see on a patrol, or finding and destroying a landmine, or interacting with the local community, or simply buying a snack in a local shop. They also display the people that we work among, whose futures we hope will be better because of our presence here.”The photo exhibition only scratched the surface of the commitments and tireless efforts of UNIFIL peacekeepers in implementing their mandate over the past 45 years – and especially since 2006, which has resulted in the longest period of relative calm and stability for south Lebanon.
On the 75th Anniversary of UN Peacekeeping UNIFIL 2023-06-13 | This video commemorates the 75th anniversary of United Nations peacekeeping and pays tribute to 45 years of UNIFIL in south Lebanon. It focuses on UNIFIL’s daily operational activities, representing the practical interpretation of the Mission’s mandate on the ground under UN Security council resolution 1701 and its subsequent renewals. Featured are scenes from the Mission’s daily vehicle patrols, foot patrols, air patrols, observation posts and naval patrols by UNIFIL’s Maritime Task Force. Also highlighted is UNIFIL’s support to the people and local communities of south Lebanon, aimed to improve lives, health, education, and the economic situation.
First Aid Training: UNIFIL teaches students UNIFIL 2023-06-13 | Students from Lycée Hanaway school attended a First Aid course given by UNIFIL’s Force Commander’s Reserve (FCR). FCR’s Corporal Paramedic and her team taught theoretical and practical aspects of first aid techniques such as what to do when a person is unconscious; assisting a choking person and, of course, how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The students showed great interest and focus during the course and were motivated to learn as much as they could from the UNIFIL peacekeepers.
Joint Training between UNIFIL and ISF UNIFIL 2023-06-13 | Joint Training between UNIFIL and ISF A workshop by UNIFIL’s Special Investigation Forensic Unit offered a platform for officers from the Lebanese Internal Security Forces (ISF) to expand their knowledge and acquire new crime scene investigation techniques and procedures. The workshop involved both practical and theoretical sessions and provided a real opportunity for an exchange of experiences between the Lebanese ISF and UNIFIL.
STEEL STORM – UNIFIL and LAF’s Live Fire Exercises Conclude Successfully UNIFIL 2023-06-12 | The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) today concluded their joint live fire exercise employing armoured assets, machine gun and small arms in an area one kilometer south of the UNIFIL Headquarters in Naqoura, south Lebanon.The “Steel Storm” exercise is a culmination of dozens of joint exercises conducted monthly between the LAF and UNIFIL peacekeepers. Taking place once or twice per year, it is the only setting where heavy artillery and armoured assets are used in “real life” combat settings using live ammunition. The importance of such an exercise cannot be understated, as it allows for both forces to hone their skills, readiness, cooperation and interoperability.The exercise was led by UNIFIL’s French-Finnish Force Commander Reserve (FCR) in conjunction with LAF’s 5th Brigade, 7th Brigade and 5th Intervention Regiment elements. Over the course of the five-day exercise various UNIFIL battalions trained separately and together with their LAF counterparts to practice tactics and cooperation in a live fire setting.UNIFIL Chief of Staff Brigadier General Bruno Helluy stated at today’s final exercise and demonstration that “coordinated drills with LAF units constitute a core element of UNIFIL’s mandate under resolution 1701 and help to build capacity and to improve the mutual trust, partnership, and efficiency of LAF and UNIFIL. This is a key condition to ensure a secure and stable environment in south Lebanon.”Brigadier General Helluy went on to congratulate all LAF and UNIFIL participating units for their high performance shown during the execution of the firing exercises and the static exhibition that took place before Lebanese Armed Forces representatives and UNIFIL contingent commanders.The setting of the Steel Storm exercise is strategically located away from populated areas so as to minimize any negative effects on the population in the vicinity. Lebanese Navy fast patrol boats, supported by UNIFIL’s Maritime Task Force, ensured safety at sea.
𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 with Irish peacekeeper UNIFIL 2023-05-20 | A sneak peek into the daily life and activities of an Irish UNIFIL Peacekeeper. Our Peacekeepers' commitment plays a vital role in maintaining stability in the region. Stay tuned for more videos featuring the dedication and hard work of peacekeepers.
UNIFIL Vehicle Patrols UNIFIL 2023-05-12 | This UNIFIL vehicle patrol is a key element in maintaining stability in south Lebanon. Hundreds of such daily vehicle, air and foot patrols ensure a continuous presence of UNIFIL peacekeepers throughout the south, helping to prevent and reduce tensions along the Blue Line. As mandated by @unitednations Resolution 1701, UNIFIL has been conducting daily patrols independently and together with the @TheLebaneseArmy.
