Defense Minister thanks Spanish peacekeepers for 20 years of work in Lebanon

Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles expressed gratitude for the dedication and generosity of Spanish peacekeepers serving in Lebanon, marking 20 years of Spain's participation in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Speaking at the Miguel de Cervantes base, Robles emphasized the high level of preparation among the Spanish military personnel deployed under the UN flag. Their primary objective is to maintain stability through patrols and surveillance activities, particularly along the Blue Line, which demarcates the border between Lebanon and Israel. They also maintain direct coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces to ensure compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006 following the war between Israel and Hezbollah, calls for a cessation of hostilities and respect for Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Robles is currently visiting Lebanon to tour the base near Majaryoun, which serves as the headquarters for UNIFIL's sector East, led by Spain. The base hosts the majority of the Spanish contingent, approximately 700 soldiers, alongside troops from India, Nepal, Serbia, and other nations.

Robles acknowledged the challenging environment, recalling difficult moments such as a Serbian soldier's death in June due to a grenade explosion, an incident where other soldiers were injured and received initial care from Spanish military personnel at the base's field hospital. "Thanks to your work, Spain contributes to peace in the world and to helping the civilian population that always suffers, very closely and unjustly, the consequences of a conflict situation," Robles stated.

The Israeli army has been engaged in a campaign against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon for several months. According to UNIFIL reports from August 5-16, an average of 137 projectiles were registered daily. The current Spanish contingent deployed in Lebanon represents the final rotation for the nation in the UNIFIL mission, as its mandate is set to expire on December 31.

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Thanks to your work, Spain contributes to peace in the world and to helping the civilian population that always suffers, very closely and unjustly, the consequences of a conflict situation.