UN Special Coordinator Sigrid Kaag briefed the Security Council in a closed session yesterday on the situation in Lebanon and the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701.  The briefing follows the release of the Secretary-General’s latest report on the implementation of resolution 1701 on 26 February.

Ms. Kaag noted the changing regional context and its impact on Lebanon. She stressed the importance of a whole of Lebanon approach that takes into consideration Lebanon’s peace and security, stability and stabilization and urged additional international assistance to Lebanon in the face of numerous challenges. She welcomed the statements of support from the Security Council to the Lebanese Armed Forces and for support to Lebanon in confronting the Syrian refugee crisis. The Special Coordinator echoed the deep concern of the Council members over the 21-month vacancy in the presidency of Lebanon and reiterated the importance of Lebanon’s leaders acting urgently and flexibly to end the vacuum and to enable Lebanon’s institutions to function effectively.