The Stability of the Middle East Also Serves the Security of Hungary

The UNIFIL mission plays an important role in supporting the maintenance of the ceasefire in Lebanon: it helps the Lebanese Armed Forces to disarm the Hezbollah and other armed groups, as well as to document the violation of the ceasefire, the minister pointed out.

During the visit, the defence minister had a discussion with Major General Diodato Abagnara, Head of Mission and Force Commander, UNIFIL. They covered the security situation of the mission and the role of the Hungarian contribution.

In what followed, he gave thanks to the Hungarian soldiers for their commitment and exemplary performance within the framework of a joint lunch and staff meeting in the UN Camp Shamrock.

The minister underlined that we have been participating in the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon since 2006, where “ today, we also visited the Hungarian troops serving with the Polish contingent”. The tasks of our soldiers include light infantry, guard and security, patrolling and convoy escort services, as well as supporting the quick reaction forces.

The defence minister emphasized that the Middle East is one of the most complex regions of the world that requires heightened attention. These days the region receives outstanding attention as the security situation is changing day by day, and the increasing tensions have perceptible effects not only in the Middle East but also worldwide.

That is why the work of the peacekeepers serving there is highly significant: their presence contributes to maintaining the ceasefire between the parties and to the security of the civilian population.

The UN recently decided to gradually withdraw the mission; thus, until the end of December 2026, the soldiers will have to serve in very difficult circumstances, while providing peace and order in the region, concluded Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky.