Kaag praised efforts by the Lebanese Armed Forces and security forces to safeguard Lebanon’s security and stability from the threat posed by extremist militants, according to a briefing held by the Secretary-General’s spokesperson this afternoon.

She said the international community would continue to stand firmly behind the Lebanese Armed Forces and security forces.

The Special Coordinator also expressed her appreciation for the countries which already provide support and encouraged further assistance.

When touring that region last month, Kaag called on all parties to exercise maximum calm and restraint, refrain from any action that could undermine the stability of the area and act responsibility to prevent any escalation in line with their commitment to resolution 1701.

Last week, she also visited the country’s north-eastern Bekka Valley, home to some 410,000 Syrian refugees and met with the region’s officials to discuss the humanitarian challenges of the area.

Photo: UN Photo/Loey Felipe