The Spanish battalion of BRILIB XLIV supports the Lebanese Armed Forces in their search for weapons and ammunition

 The Light Protected Tactical Group “Uad-Ras” conducts terrain reconnaissance in the south of Lebanon as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon

The Light Protected Tactical Group “Uad-Ras”, belonging to the Lebanon Brigade (BRILIB) XLIV, continues to carry out terrain reconnaissance south of the Litani River, in close cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), within the framework of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

The aim of these activities is to promote stability and security in the area of operations by locating and marking unexploded ordnance (UXO) and possible hidden ammunition depots, as well as detecting underground infrastructure such as tunnels that could endanger the civilian population or deployed forces. Reconnaissance operations are usually carried out jointly with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and in constant contact with local authorities.

Various types of explosive devices were located and subsequently neutralised during patrols carried out in recent weeks, strengthening area security and protecting the civilian population.

These patrols are conducted on foot and by vehicle, in accordance with the characteristics of the terrain. They combine observation and environmental analysis with the application of standardised safety procedures. In this region, having a detailed knowledge of the area of responsibility is essential in order to anticipate risks, ensure the protection of forces and guarantee the freedom of movement of UNIFIL in support of its peacekeeping mission.

Early detection of UXO and potential ammunition caches allows, once their presence is confirmed, the activation of the appropriate protocols for neutralization by specialized teams. This significantly reduces the risk of accidents and contributes to the normalization of daily life in southern Lebanon.

In addition, within the framework of these operations, civil-military cooperation activities are also conducted, such as providing medical assistance to the local population. At the same time, permanent liaison is maintained with local authorities in order to gain first-hand knowledge of the concerns and needs of the population.

Lieutenant Colonel Cristóbal Martín Arévalo, Commander of the Spanish Light Protected Tactical Group, stated that these operations “reflect the firm commitment of the Spanish contingent to the stability and security of the area, strengthening the trust of the local population and consolidating the ties between the UNIFIL mission, Spain, and civilian society in southern Lebanon”.

Spain in UNIFIL

Spain has been participating in the United Nations mission in Lebanon since September 2006, consolidating over time a firm commitment to peace and stability in the region. Most of the Spanish contingent is based at the Miguel de Cervantes base in Marjayoun, where the Eastern Sector Headquarters, under Spanish leadership, is located. There is also a Spanish presence at the UNIFIL Headquarters in Naqoura.

Currently, around 650 Spanish service members work 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 initiatives that have strengthened ties with the local population and contributed to the well-being of communities in southern Lebanon. This work reflects Spain’s commitment not only to security, but also to development and mutual trust.