In a significant diplomatic engagement, Undersecretary General for Peace Operations Jean Pierre Lacroix concluded a four-day visit to Lebanon and Israel, meeting with key Israeli officials to discuss ongoing peacekeeping efforts. Accompanied by Major General Patrick Gaucher, head of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNSO), Lacroix held discussions with senior representatives from Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), including the Northern Commander, in Jerusalem and Matula.

During these meetings, Lacroix emphasized the importance of adhering to United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which aims to maintain peace and security in the region. His visit comes amid heightened tensions and ongoing military activities in the area.

In a related development, UN peacekeeping forces in South Lebanon reported a security incident involving their patrol near Kala Wiya. The peacekeepers discovered a cache of ammunition and promptly informed the Lebanese Armed Forces. However, while they were clearing debris from a roadway, they came under fire from unknown assailants, who discharged approximately 30 rounds in their direction. Fortunately, no personnel were injured, and the vehicles sustained no damage. The UN reiterated that peacekeepers must not be targeted and called on all parties to uphold their obligations to ensure the safety of these forces.

Additionally, the UN expressed concern over media reports regarding military strikes occurring outside the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) operational area, both in Lebanon and Israel. The increasing impact of these actions on civilians is alarming, and the UN condemned any loss of civilian life, reiterating the need for all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians in conflict zones.