The incident took place early Sunday morning (local time), when two IDF Merkava tanks destroyed the main gate and enter the office by forceThis was reported by the UN interim force in Lebanon. About two hours later, after the tanks had left, several bullets were fired nearby, releasing smoke that struck the peacekeepers inside.
These developments followed several security incidents targeting peacekeepers in recent days. According to UNIFILThere have been five peacekeepers injuredUN positions and buildings damagedand critical mission movements were disrupted.
“The Secretary-General reiterates that the safety and security of UN personnel and property must be guaranteed and that the sanctity of UN buildings must be respected without reservation at all times,” the UN chief’s spokesperson said in a speech. statement.
Secretary General António Guterres also paid tribute to UNIFIL’s dedicated personnel, adding that “peacekeepers remain in all positions and the UN flag continues to fly.”
Security Council mandate
The statement further noted that UNIFIL is “constantly assessing and assessing all factors” to determine its posture and presence, and is taking all possible measures to ensure the protection of its peacekeepers.
“The role of UNIFIL and its presence in southern Lebanon have been imposed by the UN Security Council“, the statement continued, adding: “In this context, UNIFIL is committed to maintaining its capacity to support a diplomatic solution based on Resolution 1701, which is the only possible way forward.”
UNIFIL was established by the Security Council taxed monitoring the cessation of hostilities following the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, confirming the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, and assisting the Lebanese government in restoring its authority in the area.
Violation of international law
The Secretary General stressed that UNIFIL personnel and its premises should never be targeted.
“Attacks against peacekeepers violate international law, including international humanitarian law. They may constitute a war crime,” the statement said.
The Secretary General further called on all parties, including the IDF, to “refrain from any actions” that endanger UN peacekeepers.
He also renewed the call for a cessation of hostilities and the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701.