Commenting on the aggression today to which the UN House in Beirut was exposed, UNESCWA Executive Secretary Mervat Tallawy said, “we understand the feeling of the Lebanese people after several civilians fell due to strikes over the Qana village early this morning, which recalls the tragedy that hit this village in 1996.” She added, “We appreciate the intervention of the Lebanese authorities at the highest level to provide protection to the UN headquarters in Beirut and stress Lebanon’s need of the United Nations and UNESCWA. Therefore, I reiterate the call of the United Nations Secretary-General for an immediate cease fire.” Tallawy stressed that the UNESCWA permanent headquarters would remain in Beirut where it is still operating, and will be at the forefront of all who will contribute to reconstruction in Lebanon.