A delegation from the Lebanese Information Center (LIC), led by Dr. Joseph Gebeily, participated in a series of high-level meetings at the United Nations throughout the first half of August. These engagements were conducted in anticipation of the forthcoming UN Security Council discussions concerning the situation in Lebanon and the renewal of the UNIFIL mandate. Accompanying Dr. Gebeily was Mr. Augustus “Gus” Sleiman, the head of the LIC Office for UN Relations. This visit was part of LIC’s regular interaction with the multinational organization, aiming to bolster collaboration and enhance comprehension of the Lebanese situation.
The LIC delegation held productive meetings at the Office of the Secretary-General and with member states of the UN Security Council. Notable interactions included discussions with the Middle East Division of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, as well as missions representing the United States, United Kingdom, France, and the Holy See. In addition, Mr. Sleiman engaged in fruitful dialogues with the missions of Ireland and the United Arab Emirates.
Throughout these engagements, the LIC presented a comprehensive overview of Lebanon’s political and security landscape. The delegation stressed the utmost importance of the Speaker of the Parliament initiating an electoral session, marked by successive rounds of voting until a president is elected, and the significance of Members of Parliament being present and actively participating in the voting process for their preferred candidate. On the security front, particular attention was paid to the need for rigorous monitoring of the security situation in southern Lebanon, following recurrent distressing incidents of violence against UN peacekeeping forces (UNIFIL). The delegation also addressed instances of politically motivated assassinations, including the tragic killing of Elias Hasrouni in early August 2023, reminiscent of the 2021 assassination of activist Lokman Slim. The delegation further discussed incidents near the Israeli border and recent clashes within the Ain al-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp.
With the UN Security Council scheduled to deliberate and vote on the renewal of the UNIFIL mission later this month, the LIC delegation extended acknowledgment and commendation for UNIFIL’s resolute efforts amidst persistent challenges. Strong condemnation was voiced against attacks targeting the UN force, including the tragic loss of a 23-year-old Irish peacekeeper. The delegation reiterated the profound importance of diligently adhering to international resolutions, most notably UN Resolution 1701. This resolution underscores the necessity of disbanding militias, safeguarding borders, and halting the illicit inflow of weaponry from Iran and Syria.
The LIC delegation stressed the imperative nature of disarming Palestinian factions within Lebanon, aligned with national decisions and agreements reached with the Palestinian Authority. Emphasis was placed on prioritizing the stabilization of security conditions in the southern region and curbing the influence of unauthorized armed groups in accordance with Resolution 1701. Additionally, the delegation firmly called for an immediate cessation of Israeli violations, encompassing overflights and border provocations.
UN officials conveyed their profound concerns regarding the prevailing political and security challenges. While the international community stands prepared to aid Lebanon in addressing its ongoing issues, the onus lies on Lebanese authorities to fulfill their responsibilities with respect to international resolutions. The UN Security Council reiterated its steadfast commitment to ensuring unrestricted movement and access for UNIFIL, in alignment with the initial agreements, while placing unwavering trust in the pivotal role of the Lebanese Armed Forces.