The UN Security Council today unanimously extended the mandate of the UN mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) for another year. UNIFIL is one of the oldest UN missions still active. It was first mandated by the Security Council in 1978. The situation along the Blue Line is currently unstable. Due to the escalating violence on both sides of the line in recent months, UNIFIL plays an important role in efforts to de-escalate the situation. With the adoption of today's resolution, the Security Council reaffirms its call from 2006 for a complete cessation of hostilities and full respect for the area along the Blue Line.
Switzerland voted in favour of the resolution in New York. The presence of UNIFIL contributes to improving stability in the region. During the negotiations, Switzerland worked to ensure that the protection of the civilian population and compliance with international humanitarian law by all parties are part of the resolution.
Switzerland is extremely concerned about the situation in the Middle East and calls on all parties to the conflict to exercise the utmost restraint and to implement de-escalating measures. Switzerland welcomes all efforts to achieve a diplomatic solution. This includes in particular the ongoing negotiations by the USA, Qatar and Egypt on a ceasefire in Gaza, which could also contribute to de-escalation in the region along the Blue Line.
