New York, April 14 (SANA) The United Nations has called on Israel and Lebanon to use all available diplomatic channels to end hostilities and address outstanding issues under Security Council Resolution 1701, as U.S.-mediated talks between the two sides are expected to take place in Washington on Tuesday.
At a press conference on Monday, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the United Nations stands ready to work with the parties to facilitate efforts in that regard. He added that UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert continues to play a key role in supporting the parties toward the full implementation of Resolution 1701, securing a permanent ceasefire and achieving a long-term solution to the conflict, urging all sides to engage constructively.
Obstacles facing UNIFIL
Addressing the situation of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Dujarric said peacekeepers continue to face obstruction and aggressive behavior. He noted that Israeli forces attempted to block a UN convoy near the town of Shama on Sunday, though it was ultimately able to proceed.
Despite recurring incidents, UNIFIL continues its operations to support de-escalation, protect civilians and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. Dujarric reiterated calls for all parties to uphold their obligations to ensure the safety of UN personnel.
Civilians bear the brunt
Dujarric warned that as intense hostilities continue, humanitarian needs across Lebanon are rising sharply, with civilians bearing the heaviest toll. He said Israeli strikes have intensified, particularly in southern Lebanon and the western Bekaa, causing casualties and widespread damage to civilian infrastructure.
According to UNICEF, at least 18 attacks have targeted water networks nationwide, damaging reservoirs, pumping stations and main supply lines, disrupting access to safe drinking water.
Humanitarian efforts persist amid restrictions
Despite access constraints and ongoing fighting, UN humanitarian partners continue to deliver aid where possible, Dujarric said.
Since March 2, UNICEF and the World Food Programme have reached nearly 100,000 people in hard-to-reach areas, providing assistance to children and their families. Water, sanitation and hygiene partners have also distributed more than 110,000 hygiene kits.
The upcoming ambassador-level talks at the U.S. State Department mark the first such meeting between the two sides in decades. While Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed hope the discussions would lead to a ceasefire and open the door to direct negotiations, observers say prospects for a swift agreement remain limited.
M.F/ABD
