UNIFIL positions in south Lebanon attacked by Israeli Forces, injuring two peacekeepers

BEIRUT — Amid escalating Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon, a United Nations source reported that three UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) positions came under fire from the Israeli army, resulting in the injury of two peacekeepers. UNIFIL confirmed that its general headquarters in Naqoura, along with nearby sites, were repeatedly bombed during the strikes.

In a specific incident, an Israeli Merkava tank targeted a UNIFIL watchtower at the Naqoura headquarters, directly hitting the structure and wounding two soldiers, who were immediately taken to the hospital for treatment.

UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti stated that despite the Israeli assaults, the peacekeeping forces intend to maintain their positions in southern Lebanon. He reaffirmed their commitment to fulfilling their mandate.

Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations for Peace Operations, expressed growing concerns over the safety of UN forces in the region. He emphasized that the responsibility for implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which aims to maintain peace between Lebanon and Israel, lies with both nations, with UNIFIL playing a supporting role.

The US National Security Council also voiced concerns, condemning the Israeli military’s targeting of UNIFIL positions. European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called the attacks “unacceptable and unjustified,” adding to the growing international condemnation of the assaults on peacekeeping forces.