@unpeacekeeping: UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix concluded a three-day visit to Lebanon as the UN Interim Force In Lebanon (UNIFIL) prepares to withdraw following the expiration of its mandate on 31 December. Lacroix stressed the importance of maintaining a UN presence in southern Lebanon to help prevent escalation between Lebanese and Israeli forces, support local communities and promote regional peace and security. @UNIFIL Peacekeepers