The UN Secretary-General António Guterres answers questions from the Lebanese media after meeting with the Prime Minister Designate, Nawaf Salam. (left)
This article is published in association with United Nations.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Saturday expressed optimism for Lebanon’s future as he wrapped up a two-day solidarity visit with a call on the new government, the Lebanese people, and international community to “make the most of this atmosphere of opportunity”.
“A window has opened paving the way for a new era of institutional stability, a State fully able to protect its citizens, and a system that would allow the tremendous potential of the Lebanese people to flourish,” Mr. Guterres told reporters in Beirut.
The UN chief met with newly elected President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, noting a hopeful atmosphere despite significant challenges ahead.
‘Big challenges ahead’
The Secretary-General recalled his visit on Friday to southern Lebanon, where a fragile ceasefire between Hezbollah militants and Israeli forces across the Blue Line of separation is largely holding.
Mr. Guterres witnessed the dramatic human impact and destruction caused by the recent conflict firsthand. Displaced residents returning to southern Lebanon, Beirut, and the Bekaa Valley found their homes in ruins.
“The rebuilding needs are great. But they are not insurmountable,” he stated, adding that the UN will intensify support for recovery and reconstruction alongside Lebanese authorities and partners.
He also expressed hope that Israelis affected by the conflict would soon resume their daily lives.
‘Fragile ceasefire is holding’
The Secretary-General called on both parties and those with influence to ensure commitments under the ceasefire are realized and use the deal to address outstanding issues.
He noted the Israel Defense Forces’ phased withdrawal and increased deployment of Lebanese Armed Forces south of the Litani River. However, he expressed concern about continued demolitions and fatal airstrikes in southern Lebanon.
Mr. Guterres emphasized the essential withdrawal of IDF from Lebanese territory, alongside the simultaneous deployment of Lebanese Armed Forces across southern Lebanon to ensure lasting peace in line UN Security Council resolution 1701, the unanimously adopted text that ended the 2006 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
Regional context
“Finally, the situation in the region is evolving rapidly, with a deal on a ceasefire and release of hostages in Gaza, as well as developments in neighboring Syria,” said the Secretary-General commending the Government and people of Lebanon for their longstanding solidarity in hosting large numbers of Syrian and Palestine refugees.
“It is that spirit of solidarity that the world must show to the people of Lebanon.”
While noting that the road ahead is filled with promise but also great tests, including reforms and efforts for greater accountability, the UN chief concluded: “As the Lebanese people travel this road together, the United Nations is proud to stand with you. Let’s make the most of this atmosphere of opportunity.”
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A new chapter of peace
The Secretary-General said that in his earlier meeting with President Aoun he had expressed solidarity with the Lebanese people “and our total support to the President, to the future government.”
He also said that it will be possible to consolidate Lebanese institutions and to create the conditions for the Lebanese State to fully protect its citizens.
“And it will be possible with the withdrawal of the Israeli forces and with the presence of the Lebanese army in the whole of the Lebanese territory, it will be possible to open a new chapter of peace,” added Mr. Guterres.
On the frontline of peace
The Secretary-General kicked off his trip on Friday in Naqoura with a visit UNIFIL – the UN peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon – where he expressed his gratitude for the courage and determination of the UN peacekeepers who have been working in very challenging circumstances.
During his time on the ground, the Secretary-General visited some UNIFIL positions that had been hit by Israeli forces last year.
Go here to read our explainer recapping the mission’s long history and role in keeping the peace.
In remarks to the assembled leadership of the UN mission, Mr. Guterres said on Friday that they are not just on the Blue Line of Lebanon but on the front line of peace and that the UNIFIL mission is the most challenging environment for peacekeepers anywhere.
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