Spanish UNIFIL Troops Escort Families to Safety in Southern Lebanon

The families were escorted from their homes in the town of Sarda to safer areas

Spanish peacekeepers deployed with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) have, in recent days, escorted several families from their homes in the town of Sarda to safer areas due to escalating tensions and deteriorating security conditions in the region. The operation involved the escort of three families, comprising eight people travelling in five vehicles. These families had remained in their homes with insufficient supplies and in an area considered to be at risk. The town of Sarda is located very close to the Blue Line, in an area that is particularly sensitive and prone to incidents of crossfire due to the current security situation.

The escort provided by Spanish troops from Lebanon Brigade XLIV (BRILIB XLIV) ensured the safe evacuation of these families until the security situation allows them to return to their homes.

Once the transfer was completed, the civilians expressed their gratitude to the Spanish troops for the support provided. The representative of Sarda also praised their work, highlighting the effort and dedication shown by the Spanish contingent towards the local population.

Such actions reflect the commitment of Spain and UNIFIL to the protection of civilians, as well as their continued support for communities in southern Lebanon. In this way, risks to the population are reduced in a context of growing tensions while fulfilling the mandate established by the United Nations Security Council.

Spain in UNIFIL

The Spanish Armed Forces first deployed to Lebanon in September 2006. The main body of the Spanish contingent is based at “Miguel de Cervantes” Base, near the town of Marjayoun, where the Headquarters of UNIFIL Sector East, led by Spain, is located. Spanish troops are also deployed at the mission headquarters in Naqoura.

Currently, around 650 Spanish military personnel are deployed in UNIFIL. Their aim is to implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 in a highly unstable security environment, despite the ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Lebanon.

Spain’s participation in the United Nations mission in Lebanon has, over the years, become a clear demonstration of its commitment to peace, security and the well-being of the region. In addition to their military duties, the Spanish contingent has carried out numerous civil-military cooperation activities, strengthening ties with the local population.