UN chief calls for ensuring peacekeepers’ safety after IDF violates UN position in Lebanon
The incident occurred early Sunday morning (local time), when two IDF Merkava tanks destroyed the main gate and pressed into positionaccording to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. About two hours later, after the tanks left, multiple shots were fired nearby, emitting smoke that affected the peacekeepers inside.
These developments follow a number of security incidents targeting peacekeepers in recent days. According to UNITfive peacekeepers were injuredLocation and facilities of the United Nations Damagedand Mission critical movements are interrupted.
A spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General said: “The Secretary-General reiterates that the safety and security of United Nations personnel and property must be guaranteed and the inviolability of UN facilities must be guaranteed. The United Nations must always be respected without authority.” declare.
Secretary General António Guterres also paid tribute to the dedicated personnel of UNIFIL, adding that “peacekeepers remain in every position and the United Nations flag continues to fly”.
duties of the Security Council
The statement further noted that UNIFIL “continuously evaluates and reviews” all factors to determine its posture and presence, and that it is taking all possible measures to ensure force protection its peacekeeping force.
“UNIFIL’s role and its presence in southern Lebanon are authorized by the United Nations 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 viable path forward. ”
Established by the Security Council, UNIFIL 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.
Violation of international law
The Secretary General emphasized that UNIFIL personnel and its facilities must never be targeted.
“Attacks targeting peacekeepers violate international law, including international humanitarian law. They may constitute war crimes,” the statement noted.
The Secretary-General continued to call on all parties, including the IDF, to “refrain from any actions” that put UN peacekeepers in danger.
He also reiterated his call for an end to hostilities and full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701.
