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UN peacekeeping in Lebanon faces movement obstructions; Lacroix stresses need for full support
Summary
UNIFIL reported discovery of three unauthorized ammunition caches and continued obstruction of its movements; under-secretary Jean-Pierre Lacroix urged support for freedom of movement after his visit to UNDOF and UNIFIL and meetings with Lebanese officials.
The United Nations reported continued obstructions to UNIFIL's movement in southern Lebanon and the discovery of three unauthorized ammunition caches containing mortar shells and rockets, the spokesperson said at a briefing.
UNIFIL discovered the caches on June 20 and informed the Lebanese Armed Forces, which intervened at the locations. "UNIFIL continues to encounter obstruction of movements in its area of operations in Southern Lebanon, hampering implementation of its mandate," the spokesperson said.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the under-secretary-general for Peacekeeping Operations, wrapped up a visit to the Middle East that included stops at UNDOF and UNIFIL. While in Lebanon, Lacroix met with mission leadership, visited peacekeepers along the Blue Line and with the maritime task force, and discussed implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 with the Lebanese president, the defense minister and the prime minister.
Throughout his trip, Lacroix stressed the importance of ensuring missions are fully supported and have the freedom of movement necessary to complete mandated tasks, the spokesperson said. No operational changes were announced at the briefing.
