The situation along the Green Line, the boundary between the Israeli and Lebanese armed forces, has deteriorated since Israel launched an offensive on the Gaza Strip following a brutal October 7 attack by Hamas and armed groups. Other Palestinian sites target communities in the south of the country.
On Thursday, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah reportedly issued a stern warning to Israel amid reports that the Israeli military had approved a plan to attack southern Lebanon.
Prevent disaster
Speaking to the press at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, Secretary General António Guterres emphasized that the expansion of conflict in the Middle East must be avoided.
“Let’s be clear: The people of the area and the people The world cannot let Lebanon become another Gaza”, he emphasized.
“One rash move – one miscalculation – could cause disaster far beyond bordersand honestly, beyond imagination,” he said.
The UN chief also emphasized that on both sides of the Green Line, many people have been killed and driven from their homes and livelihoods.
De-escalate now
He called on both sides to “urgently recommit” to fully implementing the agreements Security Council resolution 1701 and immediately returned to the cessation of hostilities.
Passed in 2006, the resolution introduced a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, and the establishment of a demilitarized zone.
“The world must say loud and clear: Immediate stress relief is not only possible but necessary”, Mr. Guterres said and declared that “There is no military solution.”
He also emphasized the need to protect civilians, ensure that children, journalists and medical staff do not become targets and ensure that displaced people can return to their homes.
United Nations peacekeeping forces on the ground
The Secretary-General also emphasized that the UN is “actively participating” to promote peace, security and stability, in accordance with resolution 1701.
“United Nations peacekeeping force, UNITis working to reduce stress and help prevent miscalculations in an extremely challenging environment” he said, adding that the Organization fully supports diplomatic efforts to end violence, restore stability and avoid further human suffering in the region.
“And we do so as we continue to push for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, the immediate and unconditional release of hostages and a genuine path to peace,” Mr. Guterres concluded. two-state solution”.
