UNSCOL
Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General regarding the extension of the cessation of hostilities

Destroyed houses in southern Lebanon.
© UNICEF / Ibarra Sánchez

The Secretary-General welcomes the announcement of 23 April regarding a three-week extension to the cessation of hostilities arrangement to enable dialogue between Lebanon and Israel, as was initially announced on 16 April 2026 and commends the role of theUnited Statesin facilitating the extension. He reaffirms the support of the United Nations to all efforts to end hostilities and alleviate the suffering of communities on both sides of the Blue Line.

He urges all actors to fully respect the cessation of hostilities, to cease any further attacks, and to comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, at all times. He reiterates his call on Hizbullah and other non-State actors to abide by the decisions of the Government of Lebanon to extend its authority throughout its territory and to advance the exclusive control of arms by the State. He also calls on Israel to withdraw completely from north of the Blue Line, in full respect for Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity. The United Nations is committed to supporting all diplomatic efforts in reinforcing the cessation of hostilities and the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).

The Secretary-General further hopes that this agreement will contribute to ongoing efforts toward a lasting and comprehensive peace in the region.

 

Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General