Arnault reaffirms UN support for south Lebanon
UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jean Arnault reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting the Lebanese state, local authorities and residents in the South and Nabatieh governorates, regardless of decisions concerning the future of international forces.
Arnault made the remarks during a visit to Acting South and Nabatieh Governor Mansour Daou at the Sidon Serail, where discussions focused on conditions in the region.
He said the South remained under severe pressure amid continuing attacks and stressed the UN’s support for state institutions and affected communities.
Arnault said the UN Secretary-General had urged the international community to maintain an international presence in South Lebanon, even if reduced, stressing the importance of preventing a security or humanitarian vacuum at positions vacated by international forces.
He noted that decisions concerning UNIFIL ultimately rest with UN Security Council member states.
Arnault urged the international community, should UNIFIL’s mandate not be renewed, to establish alternative arrangements capable of preventing such a vacuum.
He assured residents of South Lebanon and Nabatieh that they could continue to rely on UN support.
