A joint statement issued by the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, and the UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander, Lt. Gen. Aroldo Lázaro, highlighted both progress and challenges in Lebanon in light of the implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities Understanding, which took effect on November 27. 

The statement acknowledged that the security situation in Lebanon has improved significantly since the cessation of hostilities, noting that violence has dramatically decreased with large parts of southern Lebanon seeing a reduction in tensions. In many areas, particularly in the southern regions, hundreds of thousands of displaced people have been able to return to their homes.

“The Lebanese Armed Forces have shown resolve in deploying to positions from which the IDF are withdrawing,” the statement said. “Supported by UNIFIL, the LAF is helping to restore services and facilitating humanitarian access to communities most affected by conflict."

Moreover, the statement outlined the political progress witness in Lebanon, which includes the election of a new president and the designation of a prime minister, deeming it as an important step toward rebuilding trust between Lebanese citizens and the State.

“The ongoing government formation process is a critical step in building trust between Lebanese citizens and the State,” the UN officials affirmed. “These developments also augur well for prospective support to the full extension of state authority over all Lebanese territory and for the country’s recovery, reconstruction, and growth."

However, despite the progress, the statement noted that the timelines established in the November Understanding have not been fully met. The situation remains fragile, and as demonstrated by recent events, conditions are still not conducive for the safe return of all citizens.

“As seen tragically this morning, conditions are not yet in place for the safe return of citizens to their villages along the Blue Line,” it said, urging the displaced communities to exercise caution as they continue their long journey toward recovery.

Additionally, violations of United Nations Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) are still being reported on a daily basis, signaling that full compliance with the terms of the November Understanding has not yet been achieved. The UN officials underscored the importance of both parties—Lebanon and Israel—upholding their obligations under the Understanding and resolution 1701.

“Compliance by both parties with their obligations under the November Understanding and the full implementation of resolution 1701 constitute the only way to bring closure to the recent, dark chapter of conflict and open a new one, heralding security, stability, and prosperity on both sides of the Blue Line,” the statement noted.

The UN reaffirmed its commitment to assisting all parties involved and emphasized its readiness to support actions consistent with resolution 1701 to ensure that the objectives of the November Understanding are met.

“The United Nations continues to engage all actors towards this end and remains ready to support any action consistent with resolution 1701 and the efforts of the Implementation Mechanism,” the statement said.

“With so much at stake for both Lebanon and Israel, recommitment is urgently needed from all sides,” it concluded, stressing the importance of continued cooperation to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.