Spain to Send Up to 800 Troops to Support UN Peacekeeping Mission in Lebanon

As the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon undergoes significant changes, Spain has committed to sending up to 800 troops to support the mission, pending an effective and real ceasefire. Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero emphasized Spain's commitment to peace, particularly in the Middle East, where a stable international order is deemed indispensable. The Spanish deployment will be part of the increased UNIFIL force of 15,000 troops, tasked with maintaining peace between Israel and Hezbollah guerrillas.

Key Takeaways:

  • Spain will send up to 800 troops to support the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, contingent on an effective and real ceasefire.
  • The Spanish deployment will be part of the increased UNIFIL force of 15,000 troops, mandated by UN Resolution 1701.
  • Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero emphasized Spain's commitment to peace, particularly in the Middle East, where stability is crucial for international order.
  • Defense Minister Jose Antonio Alonso stated that a force of 700 to 800 troops has been dispatched to the Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
  • Many details of the Spanish mission, including the specific role and responsibilities, still remain to be defined.
  • The UNIFIL force will help maintain peace between Israel and Hezbollah guerrillas, following a month of fighting in Lebanon.
  • The UN mandate requires neutrality and guarantees regarding the nature of occupying forces.
  • The Spanish troops will be part of a larger effort to establish a stable and peaceful environment in the region.

Statistics:

  • Up to 800 Spanish troops will be deployed to support the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon.
  • The UNIFIL force will be increased from 2,000 to 15,000 troops.
  • A month of fighting in Lebanon has led to increased international involvement, including the deployment of 15,000 UN Troops.
  • 700 to 800 Spanish troops have been dispatched to the Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Sources:

  • Xinhua News Agency, August 16, 2006.