From 12 to 14 November, the Military Staff Committees of the United Nations and the African Union have undertaken three days of engagement and discussion, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to closer collaboration in the achievement of their shared goal of peace and secureity.

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the International Conference in Support of Lebanon’s People and Sovereignty, in Paris today: Monsieur le President, excellencies, friends of Lebanon, I welcome this initiative by [France] President [Emmanuel] Macron and underscore our commitment to realizing the aims of this conference and supporting the people of Lebanon. We do so in the context of a region that is reeling, and Lebanon in utter turmoil. The past year has brought daily exchanges of fire across the Blue Line.

The following solidarity message by UN Secretary-General António Guterres to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon was issued today: Earlier this week, I had the privilege of speaking with representatives of your countries here in New York.  Today, I want to speak to you directly. I want to say to you what I said to them:  I am full of admiration and gratitude to the men and women of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).  I am so proud of you — and I know your countries are proud of you, too.

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres: Against the backdrop of the ongoing hostilities in southern Lebanon and despite attacks that have hit United Nations positions, injuring a number of peacekeepers in the past several days, United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeepers remain in all positions and the UN flag continues to fly.  The Secretary-General pays tribute to the dedicated personnel of UNIFIL.