Doha: The United Nations called on Lebanon and the Israeli entity to leverage all available diplomatic avenues at their disposal to immediately end hostilities and address outstanding provisions of Security Council resolution 1701, at a time when negotiations between the Israeli entity and Lebanon are expected to take place on Tuesday.

According to Qatar News Agency, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric affirmed, “We stand ready to work with the parties to facilitate efforts in this regard.” The UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, continues her role in support of the parties towards the full implementation of resolution 1701, aiming for a permanent ceasefire and a long-term solution to the conflict. The UN calls on all parties to engage constructively.

On the peacekeeping front, the UN spokesperson noted that “UNIFIL continues its operations on the ground in support of deconfliction, protection of civilians, and humanitarian access, to the extent possible amid ongoing hostilities.” Peacekeepers have reported continued rocket fire towards Israel and airstrikes in UNIFIL’s area of operations, particularly around Shama, At Tiri, and Bint Jbeil in Sector West, where heavy clashes persist.

The humanitarian situation remains dire, as high-intensity hostilities exacerbate needs across the country. Civilians are significantly affected by the violence, with Israeli military activity particularly intense in southern Lebanon and the western Bekaa governorate. As of yesterday, more than 2,000 people have been killed and over 6,500 injured, as casualties continue to rise, according to the Government.

Dujarric also highlighted the damage to civilian infrastructure, noting that UNICEF reported at least 18 incidents affecting water systems across the country. These incidents have damaged reservoirs, pumping stations, and main supply lines, disrupting people’s access to safe water.