New york: Jean Arnault, Officer in Charge of the Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon (UNSCOL), yesterday briefed the Security Council on the implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) alongside Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the briefing followed the dramatic escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hizbullah on 2 March, which has resulted in Israel's continued military presence and activities on Lebanese territory. Arnault highlighted the widespread devastation and displacement caused by the conflict and emphasized the magnitude of the humanitarian and recovery challenges facing the region. He called on the international community to step up efforts to address these challenges.
Arnault also discussed recent diplomatic efforts, including the Trilateral Framework agreed upon by Lebanon, Israel, and the United States on 26 June. He reiterated the United Nations' support for initiatives aimed at reducing tensions and facilitating agreements to end decades of conflict. Arnault stressed the importance of sustained international engagement and broad national ownership in these peace efforts.
Furthermore, Arnault praised the Lebanese efforts to extend state authority throughout the country, noting it as a comprehensive whole-of-government undertaking. He asserted that the success of this initiative will depend on the State's capacity to ensure security and provide services to its citizens. The Lebanese Armed Forces, being a uniquely trusted national institution, are expected to play a crucial role in this process.
In light of the uncertainty following the recent hostilities and compounded by regional instability and concerns over the post-UNIFIL situation in south Lebanon, Arnault reaffirmed the UN's commitment to the full implementation of resolution 1701. He reiterated the organization's support for Lebanon's security, stability, territorial integrity, and recovery.