In southern Lebanon, between Marjayun and the border with Israel, 650 Spanish soldiers participate in UN peace missionknown as Unifil. Equipped with the characteristic blue helmets, these soldiers find themselves at the crossroads between the Israeli army and the Lebanese group Hezbollah. In the midst of the escalation of hostilities, they spend long hours sheltered in bunkers, often warned only a few minutes before the approach of the bombings.
Since 2006, the Spanish Armed Forces have played a crucial role in this international mission. Despite efforts to maintain peace and stability, the intensification of the conflict has made their main work difficult: patrol the border, help the local population and mediate between the two sides“The situation in Lebanon is absolutely worrying, it is dramatic,” said Defense Minister Margarita Robles, stressing the constant risk that soldiers face.
Spanish General Aroldo Lázaro, head of the Unifil mission since 2022, acknowledged the complexity of the environment: “We are working in a very difficult scenario to achieve peace.” During almost two decades of Spanish presence in Lebanon, 16 compatriots lost their lives in the missionincluding six in 2007 for an attack. Today, Spanish soldiers live in uncertainty, trapped in a dangerous and frustrating wait, while the conflict continues unabated.
