UN Officials Call for Ceasefire Compliance After 15 People Killed in Lebanon
2025-01-26 12:00 | Beirut, Lebanon
Senior United Nations officials have condemned the recent violence in Lebanon and called for strict adherence to the ceasefire agreement. On Thursday, 15 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a clash between the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and Hezbollah militants near the southern city of Sidon.
“We deplore the tragic loss of life and the injuries sustained during this incident,” said UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka. “It is essential that all parties to the conflict respect the ceasefire and refrain from any actions that could further escalate the situation.”
The clashes occurred in the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp, which is home to thousands of Palestinian refugees. The LAF was conducting a raid to apprehend suspected militants when they came under fire from Hezbollah fighters. The exchange of gunfire lasted for several hours and resulted in the deaths of 12 LAF soldiers and three Hezbollah militants.
The incident has raised concerns about the stability of the ceasefire agreement, which was brokered by the UN in 2020. The agreement has largely held, but there have been sporadic outbreaks of violence in recent months.
“We urge all parties to exercise the utmost restraint and to cooperate with UN peacekeeping forces to maintain the ceasefire,” said UNIFIL Commander Major General Stefano Del Col. “The preservation of peace and stability in Lebanon is paramount.”
The UN officials also called for the perpetrators of the violence to be brought to justice. “Those responsible for these heinous acts must be held accountable,” said Wronecka. “Impunity cannot be tolerated.”
The Lebanese government has vowed to investigate the incident and has extended its condolences to the families of the victims. Prime Minister Najib Mikati has called for calm and urged all parties to avoid any actions that could further destabilize the country.
The United Nations remains committed to supporting Lebanon and will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement and the long-term stability of the country.
UN officials call for ceasefire compliance after 15 people killed in Lebanon
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