UNIFIL, the UN's peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon, is facing heightened safety concerns following an incident where two peacekeepers were injured by Israeli troops. UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix expressed alarm over the situation during a briefing to the UN Security Council, describing it as increasingly risky for peacekeepers.
The incident occurred when a UN observation post in UNIFIL's headquarters in Namoura was hit by tank fire, resulting in injuries to two peacekeepers from Indonesia. The IDF stated that its troops were operating near the UN base and had instructed UN forces to remain in protected spaces before opening fire in the area.
Israel has also accused Hezbollah of operating near UN peacekeeping positions in southern Lebanon, further complicating the security situation. Despite the injuries sustained by the peacekeepers, their conditions are reported as not serious, with both individuals currently hospitalized.
The attack on the UNIFIL base has drawn condemnation from various countries, including France and Ireland, both of which have military contingents within the peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. France expressed deep concern over the incident and called for explanations from Israeli authorities, while Irish Foreign Minister Michael Martin labeled the IDF's actions as reprehensible and unacceptable.
The escalating tensions in southern Lebanon highlight the growing risks faced by UN peacekeepers in the region, emphasizing the need for all parties involved to prioritize the safety and security of those carrying out peacekeeping duties.
