UNITED NATIONS: Forty nations contributing to the United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon, known as UNIFIL, have strongly condemned recent attacks on the peacekeepers stationed there. The joint statement, shared by the Polish UN mission and supported by key contributors such as Indonesia, Italy, India, and several others, urged an immediate cessation of these hostile actions and called for thorough investigations into the incidents.
The attacks occurred amidst heightened violence between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. At least five peacekeepers have been injured in the crossfire, with UNIFIL accusing the Israeli military of deliberately firing on their positions. The peacekeeping force, which includes approximately 9,500 troops from over 50 countries, is responsible for monitoring the ceasefire established after the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah under UN Security Council Resolution 1701. This resolution mandates that only Lebanese forces and UNIFIL personnel be stationed in southern Lebanon.
The contributing nations reiterated their support for UNIFIL’s mission of maintaining stability and peace in the region, emphasizing the need for all parties to respect the peacekeepers’ presence and ensure their safety. Leaders from France, Italy, and Spain echoed these sentiments at a recent summit, highlighting that the attacks on peacekeepers violate Resolution 1701 and must end.
Recent incidents have occurred in Naqura, where Israeli tank fire and explosions have injured Indonesian and Sri Lankan peacekeepers. UNIFIL remains committed to its role, but calls for greater protection of its personnel amid the escalating conflict.
