Jean Arnault briefs the United Nations Security Council
Jean Arnault, Officer in Charge of the Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon (UNSCOL), yesterday briefed the Security Council on the implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) alongside Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix.
Following the dramatic escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah on 2 March and the continued Israeli presence and military activities on Lebanese territory, Arnault noted the widespread devastation and displacement, and the magnitude of humanitarian and recovery challenges that lie ahead. He urged the international community to help meet these challenges.
Arnault also made reference to recent diplomatic efforts, including the Trilateral Framework agreed by Lebanon, Israel, and the United States on 26 June. He reaffirmed the United Nations' support for initiatives that reduce tensions and help the parties agree on arrangements to end decades of conflict. He underscored the importance of sustained international engagement and broad national ownership.
In his briefing, Arnault highlighted the efforts of the Lebanese to extend state authority throughout the country, saying it is a comprehensive whole-of-government undertaking, whose success will rest on the State's ability to provide both security and services to the population.
The Lebanese Armed Forces, a uniquely trusted national institution, will be an essential component in this process, Arnault added.
Amidst uncertainty in the wake of the most recent hostilities, compounded by regional turbulence and concerns over the post-UNIFIL situation in south Lebanon, Arnault underlined the UN's commitment to the implementation of resolution 1701 and its support to Lebanon's security, stability, territorial integrity and recovery.
