A manual unlocking unit for a sliding door is disclosed. The unlocking unit includes a pivotable lever element comprising a plurality of abutments; a cable having a first end connectable to an unlocking device for the sliding door and a second end connected to the lever element, the cable being tensioned to actuate the unlocking device; and an actuating element actable on at least one of the plural abutments for pivoting the lever element. Each of the plural abutments is configured for receiving a tension or pressure actuating force from the actuating element.