Global Outcry After Israeli Forces Attack UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon
The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has reported a deliberate assault by Israeli troops on its peacekeepers, resulting in injuries to two Indonesian soldiers. The attack occurred when an Israeli tank fired at a watchtower at the UNIFIL headquarters in Ras an-Naqoura, as tensions escalate throughout Lebanon.
UNIFIL condemned the attack as a severe breach of international humanitarian law. Established in 1978, the peacekeeping force includes around 10,000 personnel from 50 nations, emphasizing that any strike on peacekeepers undermines their mission.
Key Reactions to the Incident:
UNIFIL: Spokesperson Andrea Tenenti described the incident as “very serious,” highlighting that the peacekeepers chose to remain in their positions to uphold the UN’s presence in southern Lebanon. He noted that the decision on how to proceed would ultimately rest with the UN Security Council if conditions worsen.
Israel: Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon suggested that UNIFIL should relocate away from the Israel-Lebanon border due to ongoing Hezbollah threats.
Italy: Defence Minister Guido Crosetto labeled the attack “totally unacceptable,” suggesting it could be classified as a war crime and demanded an explanation from the Israeli ambassador.
France: The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern and called for an explanation from Israel, reiterating the obligation to protect peacekeepers.
Spain: The Spanish Foreign Ministry condemned the attack as a serious violation of international law, affirming the need to safeguard peacekeeper security.
European Union: Foreign policy chief Josep Borrell denounced the attack as “inadmissible” and called for accountability, asserting that Israel must respect international laws.
Meanwhile, the Irish Defence Forces confirmed that Israeli troops had vacated positions near their outpost in Lebanon, marking a positive development amid rising tensions.
As the situation remains volatile, the UN’s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights noted that significant portions of Lebanese territory are now under Israeli military orders, with over 1.2 million people displaced due to ongoing conflict.
