Finnish peacekeepers reflect on memories and hopes amid escalating conflict in southern Lebanon

Janne Tikkanen from Salolainen and Jaakko Vainionpää from Kankaanpää have been closely monitoring the news following Israel’s ground assault in southern Lebanon. Both Tikkanen and Vainionpää served as peacekeepers in the region, with memories dating back 30 years to 1994. Vainionpää has returned to southern Lebanon for service in 2014, 2018, and 2022. Finland first participated in the UNIFIL operation, which began in 1978, in 1982. Currently, about 200 Finnish peacekeepers are deployed in UNIFIL.

Tikkanen describes the current situation as bleak, expressing doubt that peace can be established in the region during his lifetime. He notes that recent conflicts have destroyed infrastructure in areas where there had previously been progress. Vainionpää attributes the current escalation to ongoing tensions between neighbors who struggle to get along, leading to inevitable conflict.

Describing the terrain, Vainionpää notes that southern Lebanon is beautiful in spring but quickly turns brown under the intense heat. The densely populated area reminds him of post-war Finland, with inadequate infrastructure and rationed electricity and water.

Reflecting on his experiences, Tikkanen recalls the poverty and despair pervasive in the region, while the presence of peacekeepers gave hope and protection to local residents. He observed that even 30 years ago, children were not playing normal games, as the war had permeated their childhoods. Tikkanen believes younger generations who are educated yearn for peace and coexistence.

Throughout his time in southern Lebanon, Vainionpää formed friendships with both Lebanese and Israeli locals, maintaining contact with many who expressed sorrow over the current situation. He speculates that Israel’s ground offensive may not last long due to resource limitations, anticipating a stabilization in about a week unless new players join the conflict.