SECURITY AND SAFETY IN LEBANON - NORTH OF THE LITANI United Nations Security Structure in Lebanon The security structure in Lebanon is unique. Responsibility has been divided between two Designated Officials and Security Management Teams, one for the area north of the Litani River and the other for the area south of the river. The Designated Official for Security in Lebanon, North of the Litani River is Mr. Michael C Williams, UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon. All the Heads of United Nations Agencies are members of the Security Management Team and each agency has an appointed security focal point. The security plan has been extensively revised recently and new zones established. Please ensure the Security Information Operations Centre (SIOC) is provided both your cell phone number and your residential address immediately on arrival. This will ensure that you are included in both the SMS and security plan emergency notification systems. Security Phase II (Restricted Movement) is currently in effect in all of Lebanon north of the Litani River and the Tyre pocket. Security Phase III remains in effect for the remainder of Lebanon south of the Litani. Staff members and visitors will be notified by their respective Agencies of any changes in the security levels. Security clearance procedures are currently in effect in Lebanon and travel restrictions vary throughout the country. The travel requirements have been amplified in a standard operating procedure titled Movcon for UN Organizations and this document is available through the SIOC located on floor B1 of UN House. Staff members should be aware that travel into Lebanon from abroad requires an authorized security clearance and that Lebanon is on the ISECT system. Unfortunately, there have been delays in the reception of email in Lebanon and it is essential that requests for clearances to the country through ISECT be submitted 7 days in advance of travel. Note: Staff that needs to travel in the country outside Beirut should submit internal clearance requests to SIOC at least 48 hours in advance. In the event of evacuation or relocation, staff will be provided direction by SIOC and/or their zone wardens and advice will be provided on how to move to the concentration point for departure from Beirut or Lebanon. International Staff members and Designated National Staff members must be issued with a VHF radio by their agency and if required, should request refresher radio training from the SIOC The area south of the Litani River, (UNIFIL Area of Operation) outside the Tyre Pocket is currently in Security Phase III and the Designated Official is the UNIFIL Force Commander. Any travel to the UNIFIL area of responsibility requires his authorization and this will be facilitated by the Security unit in Naqoura. Staff posted to Lebanon will be required to proceed to the identification section to receive a UN ID Card Security briefings upon arrival to Beirut: -Staff assigned to Lebanon should contact SIOC for an appointment to receive both mandatory UXO (Unexploded Ordinance) and Security Orientation Briefings, held in UN House within 72 hours of their arrival. -Staff members coming on mission to Lebanon for less than 2 weeks are not required to attend the briefing in SIOC however they should follow the attached security recommendations and should not hesitate to contact our SIOC which operates 24hrs/7days basis. General Security Situation in Lebanon In mid-july, 2006 Lebanon once again became involved in a war with Israel. In the south near the border, there was heavy shelling and aerial bombardment as well as significant ground fighting. Areas north of the Litani River including the southern suburbs of Beirut also have been shelled heavily and there was severe damage to this area as well as the country s roads and buildings. Fighting also broke out between the Lebanese army and a militant Islamist group called Fatah al-islam in late May and has resulted in widespread destruction to the Nahr Al Bared Palestinian Camp outside Tripoli. Movement by UN staff anywhere in Lebanon is not authorized without the prior clearance of the Designated Official or the Chief Security Advisor for the area north of the Litani River, and/or the Designated Official and Chief Security Officer for the area south of the Litani River. In the past there were threats against individual UN personalities and more recently against UNIFIL and the UN in general. Tragically, on 24 June 2007, terrorists targeted a UNIFIL patrol directly for the first time and six UN peacekeepers lost their lives. There was another bomb attack carried out against UNIFIL a few days later; however, this time there were no injuries. There is a generic threat against the United Nations worldwide from Al Qaeda United Nations DSS- Lebanon Page 1 of 3 1 October 2009
and this organization has recently been attempting to increase its presence in Lebanon. Alleged members of Al Qaeda were arrested in Lebanon in early 2006 and others were arrested early in 2007. Information received indicates Al Qaeda is still attempting to increase its numbers in the country and it remains a potential threat to the UN. In addition, it is likely this threat will be carried over to home-grown terrorist organizations which pattern themselves on Al Qaeda. Lebanese authorities have arrested members of three such groups since the beginning of 2006. Significant political differences also exist between the many groups and sects in Lebanon. These differences have been amplified since the cessation of hostilities in strong statements made by a number of the leaders of these groups. These differences have led to significant demonstrations by both sides since the end of November 2006. In early 2007, differences between the two sides evolved into street clashes resulting in deaths and prompting DSS New York to issue a travel advisory temporarily restricting the travel of missions to the country. These political problems have continued with the assassinations of two politicians since June 2007. It is possible that UN staff involved in development activities may find themselves caught up in these rivalries. The crime rate was reasonably low prior to the outbreak of hostilities, and this threat has not noticeably increased since the end of the war. The exception to this trend has been an increase in the number of bags snatchings in Beirut. There are still some people who harbour resentment towards the United Nations, a sentiment more evident in the south and staff members are cautioned not to walk on the streets in Beirut alone after dark. Usage of Taxi Movement in taxis has not generally been a problem; however, staff members are advised to determine the price for the trip before getting into the vehicle. Staff seeking taxi from the airport are recommended to use either the airport official taxis, if not staff are highly advised to use taxi that have clear marking and are part of a taxi company to insure safety. Staff are advised not to use shared taxi inside Beirut, and only use taxis recommended by their hosting agency or from the hotel they are in. Traffic Traffic in Lebanon remains a problem, and driving can still be exceptionally dangerous. Lebanese are well known for their almost total disregard of the rules of the road. High speeds are common as is people driving on the wrong side of the road or the wrong way down a one-way street. Getting cut-off in Lebanon is inevitable. Staff members are advised to use local drivers when possible, however if driving themselves, should avoid disputes with other drivers over perceived rights of way. Weapons are sometimes used to settle these sorts of disagreements. Medical Services Medical and dental services in Lebanon are very good and most ailments can be treated professionally in the country. On 21 July 2006 the following hospitals agreed with the UN to admit staff members without first having a letter of guarantee from the UN Agencies: American University of Beirut Medical Centre Hôtel Dieu de France Saint Georges Hospital Lebanese Geitawi Hospital Trad Hospital and Medical Centre Fouad Khoury Hospital Rizk Hospital Hôpital du Sacre Coeur Al Arz Hospital Notre Dame Hospital Maouat Hospital Hammoud Hospital Mount Lebanon Hospital. For further details, please contact ESCWA Medical Unit (number attached). Precautions Be alert at all times you are the key to your own safety Keep a low profile dress and behave modestly Do not display wealth ostentatiously (jewellery, big amounts of money, other valuables) Carry a photocopy of your passport information page, United Nations Laissez-Passer and residency card with you Demonstrations are consistently held outside United Nations House in Lebanon. Please avoid any large crowds. Carry the numbers for SIOC with you at all times Follow local news events United Nations DSS- Lebanon Page 2 of 3 1 October 2009
Contact Numbers 24/7 Security Information Operations Centre (SIOC) Yarzeh Baabda Normal P.T.T. telephone lines: 961-5-428112/3 Satellite connection: 3-9734 /3-9731 Security Fax: 961-5-428046 E-mail: unsioclebanon@un.org VHF base radio call sign: Bravo Sierra Base INMARSAT security telephone: Voice: (873) 76265 2090 Fax: (873) 76265 2091 United Nations-House Normal P.T.T. telephone lines: 961-1-981301-20 Satellite connection: 3-9734/ 3-9731 Fax: 961-1-981510 E-mail: security-un-lebanon@un.org VHF base radio call sign: Bravo Sierra Base INMARSAT security telephone: Voice: (873) 76265 2088 Fax: (873) 76265 2086 Chief Security Advisor Office telephone: 961-5-428100 Fax: 961-5-428047 Cellular: 961-3-228450 Deputy Security Advisor Office telephone: 961-5-428101 Fax: 961-5-428047 Cellular: 961-3-140640 ESCWA Medical Unit Office telephone 961-1-978145/6/7 UN Medical Doctor 961-3-333751 UN Nurse 961-3-448484 Local Emergency Numbers Police 112 Fire Department 175 Red Cross 140 Patient Transport Service 961-1-388 788 (961-3-844 446) United Nations DSS- Lebanon Page 3 of 3 1 October 2009
01/06/2010 Page 1 of 3 SECURITY AND SAFETY IN UNIFIL AO SOUTH OF THE LITANI General Security Situation in UNIFIL AO - South Lebanon The general security situation in South Lebanon after the withdrawal of the Israeli Defence Forces in May 2000 was generally violent until uneasy calm was achieved by mid 2003. Then after, apart from violations of the Line of Withdrawal (The Blue Line), low scale cross border exchanges between Hezbollah and the Israeli Defence Force were recorded and the period was characterised by tension on both sides of the Blue Line. Relative calm prevailed for most part of the period 2004-2006. New hostilities on the Israeli-Lebanese border started on 12 July 2006 when Hezbollah launched several rockets from Lebanese territory across the Blue Line towards IDF positions near the coast and in the area of the Israeli town of Zarit. In parallel, Hezbollah fighters crossed the Blue Line into Israel, attacked an Israeli patrol and captured two Israeli soldiers, killed three others and wounded two more. The captured soldiers were taken into Lebanon. Subsequent to the attack on the patrol, a heavy exchange of fire ensued across the Blue Line between Hezbollah and the IDF. While the exchange of fire stretched over the entire length of the Line, it was heaviest in the areas west of Bint Jubayl and in the Shabaa farms area. Hezbollah targeted IDF positions and Israeli towns south of the Blue Line. Israel retaliated by ground, air and sea attacks. In addition to air strikes on Hezbollah positions, the IDF targeted numerous roads and bridges in southern Lebanon, within and outside the UNIFIL area of operations. The 2006 War was ended on 14 August after the adoption of UNSCR 1701 which called for a cessation of hostilities and an expansion of the UNIFIL Force. Relative calm has been restored since the arrival of the expanded force and the Blue Line has been moderately quiet. Threats in the UNIFIL AO In spite of the uneasy calm experienced in UNIFIL AO, the following remain threats to UN staff operating south of the Litani River: The fluid nature of the general situation in the AO. Mines, UXOs and cluster bombs scattered in the AO. Fallouts from political instability. Terrorist attacks. (VBIED, Roadside Bombs etc.). Rocket attacks at UN facilities. Violent demonstrations/riots. Road Accidents. Weather hazards. In the recent past, UNIFIL has recorded three terrorist attacks against its troops, two in the AO and the other close to the southern city of Saida. Information received indicates Al Qaeda and affiliated extremist groups are still attempting to increase its numbers in the country and it remains a potential threat to the UN. Significant political differences also exist between the many groups and sects in Lebanon. These differences have been amplified since the cessation of hostilities in strong statements made by a number of the leaders of these groups. These differences have led to significant demonstrations by both sides since the end of November 2006. These political problems have continued with the assassinations of prominent politicians and senior public officials as well as a protracted presidential void since 25 September 2007. Crime rate is comparatively low in the south. Movement in taxis has not generally been a problem; however, staff members are advised to notify Security or their wardens on all their movements or that of dependents. Upon arrival in the mission area, staff will be required to proceed to the Pass and ID unit (Security Section) to receive a UN ID Card. Staff members are also required to receive a Security Briefing, held on Mondays at 0900hrs at the Security Building. In the event of evacuation or relocation, staff will be provided direction by UNIFIL Security and/or their zone wardens and advice will be provided on how to move to the concentration point for departure from Naqoura, Tyre or Lebanon. International Staff members must be issued with a VHF radio by CITS and if required, should request refresher radio training from the Security Operations Centre.
01/06/2010 Page 2 of 3 Security Phases Tyre Pocket - Phase 2 Sector East - Phase 3 Sector West - Phase 3 Beirut - Phase 2 Saida - Phase 2 Road Safety Traffic in the south Lebanon remains a problem. Road conditions are average and the terrain is pretty hilly and winding. Driving is exceptionally dangerous. Lebanese are well known for their almost total disregard of the rules of the road. High speeds are common as well as people driving on the wrong side of the road or the wrong way down a one-way street. Staff should avoid disputes with other drivers over perceived rights of way. Weapons are sometimes used to settle these sorts of disagreements. Medical Services in the AO Precautions Be alert at all times you are the key to your own safety Keep a low profile dress and behave modestly Do not display wealth ostentatiously (jewellery, big amounts of money, other valuables) Carry a photocopy of your passport information page, United Nations Laissez-Passer and residency card with you Please avoid any large crowds Avoid travel at night especially along the Blue Line and inside the AO Carry the numbers for UNIFIL Security with you at all times Follow local news events Seek shelter at the closest UN Posn or if practicable LAF checkpoint in an emergency Respect the cultural obligations and norms of the local population Medical and dental services in Lebanon are very good and most ailments can be treated professionally in the country. The following hospitals are available for staff members: Level 1 Hospital - Naqoura Level 2 Hospital - Sector East Jabel Amal Hospital - Tyre Najeem Hospital - Tyre Hammoud Hospital - Saida Other hospitals as indicated in the North Litani advisory For further details, please contact UNIFIL Chief Medical Officer (number attached).
01/06/2010 Page 3 of 3 Contact Numbers 24/7 UNIFIL Security Operations Centre (SOC) Normal P.T.T. telephone lines: 961-1-827555 Security Fax: 961-1-827758 Cell Phone: 961-70-990960 E-mail: unifil-security-ops@un.org VHF base radio call sign: November Sierra Base 24/7 Back up Ops (Assembly Area) - Tyre Normal P.T.T. telephone lines: 961-1-827574 E-mail: unifil-security-tyr@un.org VHF base radio call sign: Tango Sierra Base Chief Security Officer - Mr. Bruno Denais Office telephone: 961-1-827013 Fax: 961-1-827146 Cellular: 961-3-010523 UNIFIL AO Deputy Chief Security Officer - Mr. Victor Sukacz Office telephone: 961-1-827842 Cellular: 961-70-930790 Chief Medical Officer - Mr.Sergiusz BOJENKO Office telephone 961-1- 827777 Cellular: 961-70-915654 TYRE POCKET Local Emergency Numbers Police 112 Fire Department 175 Red Cross 140