Abanar: Resolution 1701 is UNIFIL's 'compass' for maintaining peace in southern Lebanon

said the head of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and its Commander-in-Chief, Lieutenant General Deodato Abanara, that the principles of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, adopted 20 years ago and forming the foundation of UNIFIL’s mandate, remain the cornerstone of efforts to maintain stability in southern Lebanon and support peace in the region.

In a speech delivered during a memorial ceremony at UNIFIL’s headquarters in Naqoura, Abanara stated that "in the face of a changing and increasingly complex regional environment, the principles of Resolution 1701 are more vital than ever before."

He added: "Resolution 1701 is more than just the legal basis of our mandate; it is the framework that guides every patrol, every coordination meeting, every joint activity with the Lebanese Armed Forces, and every engagement with local communities. For our mission, Resolution 1701 remains our compass, directing our actions, decisions, and commitment to peace every single day."

The Security Council adopted Resolution 1701 on August 11, 2006, ending hostilities that year and establishing a framework aimed at achieving lasting peace along the Blue Line and a permanent cessation of hostilities between Lebanon and Israel. UNIFIL continues to support all parties in fulfilling their commitments under the resolution.

Abanara noted that the "real strength" of the resolution is not measured by the words written 20 years ago, but by "the actions, commitment, and dialogue that continue to bring those words to life on the ground."

During the ceremony, Abanara presided over a tribute to seven peacekeepers who lost their lives while carrying out their duties during recent hostilities. A commemorative plaque was unveiled, and a tree was planted in honor of each of the seven fallen peacekeepers.

"These were not merely symbolic ceremonies," said Abanara. "They represented a journey—from memory to responsibility to hope."

It should be noted that 346 peacekeepers from UNIFIL have lost their lives serving in supporting peace and stability in southern Lebanon since 1978, including 89 who died since the adoption of Resolution 1701 in 2006.

Abanara highlighted that the sacrifices of these soldiers remind us that the values underpinning peacekeeping require courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment.

Speaking about the symbolism of planting trees, Abanara said that peace, like nature, requires care and support over time.

"The tree looks toward the future. It reminds us that peace, like nature, cannot simply be declared—it must be planted. It requires deep roots, consistent care, and patience."

He concluded: "May the values of dialogue, cooperation, and hope continue to grow, just as the trees we planted today will grow—for the benefit of Lebanon, the region, and future generations."