The situation in the Middle East – civilians bear the burden of escalation

In this article, we follow with you developments from various parts of the United Nations system.

UNIFIL monitors heavy gunfire

During the past 48 hours, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon monitored (UNIFIL) Heavy gunfire and explosions in the town of Naqoura and its environs, near the UNIFIL headquarters.

UNIFIL spokeswoman Candice Ardell indicated that bullets, shrapnel and projectile fragments hit buildings and open areas inside the headquarters of the UN peacekeeping mission. “This put the peacekeepers at risk. As a result, the peacekeepers were confined to shelters to avoid injuries.”

Just before noon today, Ardell said, a projectile hit a building inside UNIFIL headquarters. She stated that peacekeepers who specialize in defusing explosives are dealing with the matter. She said: “We believe it was launched by a non-state entity.”

It reminded all parties of their responsibility to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers, and to avoid any action that might expose them to danger, including combat activities.

She reiterated that there is no military solution to this conflict, and urged the parties to put aside their weapons and commit to working to find a long-term solution, before more people are harmed.

Supply chains

The war continues to severely disrupt global supply chains, raising commodity prices and increasing vulnerability around the world.

Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services, Jorge da Silva, said that the repercussions of the situation extend beyond the borders of the region, as high oil, fuel and gas prices destabilize the global economy.

Humanitarian operations are also under increasing pressure, with major airspace, shipping lines and crossings closed, hindering access to essential supplies, including medicines.

Da Silva added that attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz – a vital artery for global energy trade – threaten to further raise prices and delays.

Developing countries, especially in Africa and Asia, are expected to be the most affected, as disruptions to energy and fertilizer markets threaten food security.

Da Silva stressed that there is no military solution, calling for renewed diplomatic efforts to end the crisis.

More later….