The BRILIB XLIV Engineer Unit: rebuilding hope in southern Lebanon

• Through dedication and professionalism, Spanish service members open routes in the area of deployment and help restore normality for the local population

In southern Lebanon, the area of deployment of UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon), sixty men and women from the BRILIB XLIV Engineer Unit, commanded by Captain Manuel López López, work every day with a clear objective: to contribute to peace and stability in a region that has suffered the consequences of conflict.

In this context, their work not only strengthens the United Nations mission to ensure compliance with Security Council Resolution 1701 (2006), but also improves the lives of thousands of people, demonstrating Spain’s firm commitment with the Lebanese population.

The efforts of the Spanish combat engineers are reflected in key actions such as the removal of debris to reopen routes and the reconstruction of paths and roads, which are essential to restoring mobility and facilitating the return of displaced families.

Another fundamental aspect of their work is the support to EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) and demining operations, eliminating explosive remnants that pose a constant threat to the civilian population. The unit is supported by specialised personnel and a K9 canine team capable of detecting explosives with great accuracy.

The unit also carries out maintenance and fortification of positions, with the aim of ensuring that both deployed forces and the local population can move safely. Every intervention, every kilometre of road repaired, and every area cleared has a direct impact on the daily lives of the Lebanese people.

As Captain López points out, “the combat engineers are giving their time, their effort and their work, and ultimately a part of their lives; they do so out of vocation, willingly, with enthusiasm and with the satisfaction of giving the best they have.” This unit, as part of Spain’s commitment to Lebanon, carries out its mission “with enthusiasm and responsibility, aware that its work is key to the country’s recovery and to enabling displaced families to return to their homes. More than a technical task, it is a human endeavour that helps rebuild not only infrastructure, but also hope.”

Spain in UNIFIL

Spain has been part of the United Nations mission in Lebanon since September 2006, consolidating over time a strong commitment to peace and stability in the region. The Spanish contingent has its main base at Miguel de Cervantes Base in Marjayoun, which hosts the Headquarters of the Eastern Sector under Spanish leadership, and also maintains a presence at UNIFIL Headquarters in Naqoura..

Around 650 Spanish service members are currently working to ensure the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, in a complex operational environment marked by instability, despite the peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon.

In addition to its operational duties, Spain promotes various civil-military cooperation activities, which have helped strengthen ties with the local population and contribute to the well-being of communities in southern Lebanon. This effort reflects Spain’s commitment not only to security, but also to development and mutual trust.