UNIFIL holds official ceremony in Naqoura marking International Day of UN Peacekeepers

UNIFIL held an official ceremony at its headquarters in Naqoura on the occasion of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers.

According to a statement, this year’s celebration comes amid a significant deterioration in the security situation, with escalating hostilities, repeated violations along the Blue Line, and a worrying risk of further escalation.

In a speech marking the occasion, Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Diodato Abagnara said that even under these complex conditions, peacekeepers continue to carry out their duties efficiently and with dedication, using liaison and coordination mechanisms to help ease tensions, coordinate humanitarian assistance where possible, and create conditions for stability.

He stressed that the political and diplomatic track remains the only viable solution to the conflict, reaffirming that UNIFIL remains committed to supporting parties in restoring a cessation of hostilities and creating conditions for a lasting ceasefire.

The ceremony also included a tribute to peacekeepers who lost their lives. In recent months, six UNIFIL peacekeepers were killed while performing their duties. Their sacrifice serves as a reminder of the risks faced by peacekeepers and the importance of their mission.

Major General Abagnara said: “Today, we honour the memory of more than 4,500 peacekeepers who have lost their lives in service worldwide since 1948, including 345 in UNIFIL, and we pay tribute to our six colleagues who were recently lost in tragic circumstances. Their sacrifice strengthens our determination to complete this mission and pursue peace with renewed resolve. We will never forget their commitment and courage. Despite difficult circumstances, UNIFIL has once again reaffirmed its strong commitment to its mandate toward the people of southern Lebanon.”

He concluded by saying: “As we mark the 78th anniversary of United Nations peacekeeping operations, we renew our determination to uphold peace, even in the darkest circumstances. We owe it to those who have lost their loved ones and livelihoods – and to communities on both sides of the Blue Line – to persist in our efforts toward stability and a peaceful future.”

The statement noted that May 29 is observed annually as the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers in recognition of the professionalism, dedication, and courage of military and civilian peacekeepers worldwide, and in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for peace.

 

The date also marks the establishment of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) in 1948, whose international observers in Lebanon continue working alongside UNIFIL for peace and stability in southern Lebanon.