Jean-Pierre Lacroix, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, briefed journalists via video link from Jeddah after an extensive visit to the Middle East, noting a rise in dangerous incidents affecting UN peacekeepers. He emphasized that despite increasingly challenging conditions, UN missions are continuing to fulfill their mandates.
Regarding the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Mr. Lacroix stressed that there is no pre-drawdown mandate and that the mission will continue operating under its current authorization until the end of December 2026. UNIFIL remains focused on supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and advancing the implementation of Security Council resolution 1701, which ended hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in 2006. Cooperation with Lebanese authorities and the LAF continues to be strong, though several operational challenges remain.
Lacroix expressed serious concern about the increasing number of hostile incidents involving peacekeepers, particularly those linked to the Israeli Defense Forces. He warned that several encounters could have had tragic consequences and stated that he had raised the matter with Israeli counterparts, reminding all parties of their responsibility to ensure the safety of UN personnel. He also highlighted the widespread devastation in southern Lebanon, where entire villages and displaced civilians remain unable to return, hindering recovery and reconstruction efforts.
Beyond security concerns, Lacroix discussed the financial strain on peacekeeping operations, noting that UNIFIL and other missions have had to implement savings plans due to delayed or incomplete contributions from some member states. He praised peacekeepers for their adaptability, innovation, and operational adjustments that have helped mitigate the impact of these financial constraints.
Turning to Syria, Lacroix said the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) continues to carry out its mandate with strong support from the Security Council and Syrian authorities. He noted that conditions on the ground have shifted since Israeli forces established positions in the area of separation defined by the 1974 disengagement agreement. Lacroix expressed hope for a return to a situation where UNDOF is the sole military presence in the separation zone, describing recent Israel-Syria talks mediated by the United States as positive.
He also emphasized the growing importance of UN mine action efforts in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Lacroix noted that humanitarian and reconstruction needs are extensive and urged greater donor support. Additional resources, he stressed, are critical to protecting civilians and supporting recovery in these conflict-affected regions.
