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Lebanon
UNIFIL marked the International Day of UN Peacekeepers by emphasizing its dedication to restoring the ceasefire amid escalating tensions along the Blue Line in Lebanon.
UNIFIL held an official ceremony at its headquarters in Naqoura to commemorate the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers.
In a statement, UNIFIL noted that this year's celebration took place amid a significant deterioration in the security situation, with escalating hostilities, repeated violations along the Blue Line, and a concerning risk of further escalation.
Major General Diodato Abagnara, Head of UNIFIL and Force Commander, stated, "Even under these complex conditions, peacekeepers continue to perform their duties efficiently and with dedication, utilizing liaison and coordination mechanisms to help reduce tensions, coordinate humanitarian aid movements where possible, and create conditions for stability."
He emphasized that "the political and diplomatic track remains the only viable solution to the conflict," affirming that "UNIFIL remains committed to supporting the parties in restoring the cessation of hostilities and preparing the ground for a lasting ceasefire."
The ceremony also honored the memory of peacekeepers who lost their lives. In recent months, six UNIFIL peacekeepers were killed while on duty: Corporal Farizal Romadon, Corporal Rico Pramudia, Major Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, First Sergeant Mohamed Nour Ikhwan, First Sergeant Florian Montorio, and Sergeant Anicet Gerardin. Their sacrifices serve as a reminder of the dangers faced by peacekeepers and the importance of their mission.
Major General Abagnara remarked, "Today, we commemorate more than 4,500 peacekeepers who have died in service worldwide since 1948, including 345 in UNIFIL. We pay tribute to our six colleagues who were tragically lost recently. Their sacrifices strengthen our resolve to complete this mission and pursue peace with renewed determination. We will never forget their commitment and courage. Despite the challenging circumstances, UNIFIL has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to its mandate towards the people of southern Lebanon."
He concluded his address by saying, "As we celebrate the seventy-eighth anniversary of United Nations peacekeeping operations, we renew our determination to champion peace, even in the darkest times. We owe it to those who have lost loved ones and livelihoods—and to the communities on both sides of the Blue Line—for their perseverance in our efforts toward stability and a peaceful future."
The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers is observed annually on May 29 to honor the professionalism, dedication, and courage of military and civilian peacekeepers worldwide and to remember those who sacrificed their lives for peace. This date marks the establishment of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) in 1948, whose international observer team in Lebanon continues to work alongside UNIFIL to promote peace and stability in southern Lebanon.
