UN Urges Immediate De-escalation in Lebanon-Israel Conflict Amid Humanitarian Crisis

The UN has called for immediate de-escalation along the Blue Line between Lebanon and Israel, citing security and humanitarian concerns. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon and Special Coordinator Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert are leading diplomatic efforts. Over 1,500 civilians have died and 200,000 displaced in Lebanon since October 2023.

The United Nations has raised alarms over a sharp escalation in hostilities along the Blue Line that separates Lebanon and northern Israel, voicing the potential threat to regional stability and the safety of civilians. The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is engaging with involved parties to mitigate tensions.

UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, is spearheading diplomatic efforts to end the violence, highlighting the UN's commitment to restoring peace and reducing humanitarian suffering. The UN has urged all parties to adhere to Security Council Resolution 1701 and immediately halt hostilities.

Despite challenging conditions, UN peacekeeping forces remain dedicated to their mission, stressing the necessity for parties to obey international laws and protect civilians. Imran Riza, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Lebanon, cautioned that the violence has caused widespread human and infrastructural losses, with 700 deaths and 1,20,000 people displaced in just one week.

(With inputs from agencies.)