As per standard protocol, electronic countermeasures were used to take down the hitherto unidentified unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), according to UN spokesman Farhan Haq at a press conference. regularly in New York.
UNIT opened an investigation into the incident.
The downing of the drone follows other related security developments in recent days that have forced the departure of at least five United Nations peacekeepers. injuredand damaged peacekeeping positions and facilities.
15 more peacekeepers suffered “smoke effect” including skin and gastrointestinal problems after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) fired multiple rounds near their base.
duties of the Security Council
Established by the United Nations Security CouncilUNIFIL is assigned the task by overseeing 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 power in the region.
Mission of Maritime special forces (MTF) has been deployed since October 2006. It supports the Lebanese Navy in monitoring territorial waters, protecting the Lebanese coast and preventing the illegal introduction of weapons or related equipment by sea into Lebanon.
The Task Force consists of five ships and one helicopter, contributed by different nations.
A crater marks the impact of the explosion at UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura.
Airspace violation
Meanwhile, UNIFIL also reported that Wednesday marked the highest number of IDF violations of Lebanese airspace in a 24-hour period since October 8, 2023, with 60 violations.
“Strikes were reported in areas across Lebanon, including the Beqaa valley, Sidon and Nabatiyeh. Hezbollah attacks on northern Israel also continue, including towards Haifa,” Mr. Haq said at the same press conference.
In addition, in the past 24 hours, peacekeeping forces continued to observe gun battles on the “Green Line” separating Israel and Lebanon.
Impacts were reported in the areas of Ayta ash Sha’b, Mays al-Jabal, Markaba, Ett Taibe and Raabatt Talateen, as well as continued IDF military activity in the UNIFIL area of operations.
“Some of these activities continue to take place near UN positions and compromise the safety and security of peacekeepers,” Haq added.
The UN Secretary General welcomed the peacekeeping force
UN Secretary General António Guterres issued one declare on Thursday expressed solidarity with UNIFIL staff, saying he admired and was grateful for their commitment to the mission.
“I am very proud of you – and I know your country is proud of you too,” he said.
“You should know that in New York, we are all very aware of your courage during the most challenging times in UNIFIL’s history.”
Mr. Guterres also reiterated that the safety and security of United Nations personnel remains a top priority, and emphasized that attacks on United Nations peacekeeping forces are “absolutely unacceptable.” acceptable”, marks a violation of international law and may constitute a war crime.
“Despite all the challenges, UNIFIL still maintains its position. Every day you keep the green flag flying – and ensure the primacy of international law,” Mr. Guterres declared.
“You are not just on the Green Line in Lebanon, you are literally on the front lines of peace.”
