BEIRUT: The United Nations said four of its military observers were injured Saturday when a shell exploded near them in southern Lebanon, where Israel and the Hezbollah movement trade regular cross-border fire.
According to the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), the incident occurred during a foot patrol along the Blue Line, which demarcates the border with Israel. While UNTSO did not attribute responsibility for the shelling, Lebanon’s official National News Agency pointed the finger at Israel.
In response to the incident, UNTSO condemned the targeting of peacekeepers, labeling it as unacceptable. The wounded observers were promptly evacuated to a hospital for treatment, and an investigation has been initiated to determine the source of the explosion.
Emphasizing the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law, UNTSO reiterated the need for all parties to refrain from targeting non-combatants, including peacekeepers, journalists, medical personnel, and civilians. The organization called for an end to the ongoing heavy exchanges of fire to prevent further civilian casualties.
The cross-border fire between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified since the outbreak of the conflict with Palestinian resistance group Hamas in the Gaza Strip in October. Hezbollah has been conducting attacks on Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, leading to heightened tensions in the region.
Lebanon’s National News Agency reported that “enemy aviation” targeted the area in southern Lebanon where the UN observers were wounded. The escalation in hostilities since October has resulted in several casualties, including Hezbollah fighters and civilians on both sides of the border.
The recent increase in deadly exchanges has raised fears of a broader conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, who last engaged in warfare in 2006. UNTSO, established in 1948, plays a crucial role in monitoring ceasefires and armistice agreements, while also supporting other UN peacekeeping operations in the region, including the UNIFIL peacekeeping force.
