Source: DD News
Context: A UN peacekeeping patrol in southern Lebanon was attacked by civilians with metal rods and axes; no casualties were reported, though vehicles were damaged.
About Lebanon:
- Located in: Western Asia, on the eastern Mediterranean coast.
- Capital: Beirut
- Neighbouring Countries: Bordered by Syria, Israel, and the Mediterranean Sea.
- Geological Features:
- Mountains:
- Lebanon Mountains: Dominant limestone-sandstone ridge; highest peak at Qurnat al-Sawdāʾ (3,088 m).
- Anti-Lebanon Range: Runs parallel to the Lebanon Mountains; includes Mount Hermon (2,814 m).
- Plains and Valleys:
- Bekaa Valley: Fertile rift valley between the two mountain ranges; part of the Great East African Rift System.
- Rivers:
- Litani River: Longest River within Lebanon; flows southward into the Mediterranean.
- Orontes River and Kabir River also serve as significant drainage channels.
About UN Peacekeepers:
- What It Is?
- UN Peacekeeping involves the deployment of military personnel, police, and civilians to conflict zones to maintain peace and security under UN mandates.
- Established In: Started in 1948, when the UN deployed observers in West Asia following the Arab-Israeli armistice.
- Key Features:
- Mandated by: UN Security Council through formal resolutions.
- Managed by: UN Department of Peace Operations (DPO).
- Core Principles:
- Consent of the parties
- Impartiality
- Non-use of force, except in self-defence or defence of mandate
- Funding: Approved by the UN General Assembly and contributed by member states.
- Objective: Help countries navigate the transition from conflict to peace, ensure humanitarian aid, and support institution-building.
