UNIFIL – SecCo President statement

"The Security Council, has studied the Secretary-General's interim report on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, circulated on 19 April 1979 in document S/13258, in accordance with the request made by the Council at its 2113th meeting, on 19 January 1979.

"On behalf of the members of the Council, I wish to state that they are following with the deepest concern the significant increase of tension in the area, particularly during the past months, and that they share the Secretary-General's anxiety over the present situation in which the Force is unable fully to implement its mandate. I wish to express to the Secretary-General the satisfaction and appreciation we feel for the efforts that he has undertaken towards the full implementation of Council resolution 425 (1978), and also to commend most highly the performance of the officers and men of the Force under the most difficult circumstances. If for any reason the Force were to be eroded, a highly dangerous and volatile situation would inevitably arise in the area.

"Members of the Security Council share the views expressed in the Secretary-General's report about what should still be done towards the full implementation of the objectives of resolution 425 (1978) and emphasize in this connexion the importance of the deployment of the Force in all parts of Southern Lebanon.

"The Security Council expresses its special satisfaction at actions taken by the Government of Lebanon and in particular the deployment of the Lebanese Army contingent under the 'phased programme of activities'. Members of the Council consider that the continuation of such efforts, called for by the resolutions of the Council, should immediately lead to the return of the effective authority of the Government of Lebanon over all its territory. In this respect, the Council reiterates its call for strict respect for the territorial integrity, unity, sovereignty and political independence of Lebanon within its internationally recognized boundaries. Members of the Council consider that all measures should be taken urgently towards the implementation of the 'phased programme of activities', and particularly such measures as are deemed necessary to ensure the safety of the Force and of its headquarters. If such measures are not taken and, a fortiori, if further serious incidents occur, they feel that the Council should meet without delay to consider the situation."