United Nations Criticizes Israel for Striking Hezbollah and UN Peacekeeping Posts.
Tensions have escalated along the Israel-Lebanon border as the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) continue targeting Hezbollah positions within Lebanon. Alongside these strikes, IDF forces have also attacked posts belonging to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), prompting sharp criticism from the international community.
India’s Call for Peacekeeper Safety Amid Strikes.
India, a key participant in UN peacekeeping efforts, has expressed concern over the safety of peacekeepers amidst the ongoing conflict. On October 12, 2024, India emphasized the need for the protection of UN peacekeepers stationed in the region. The Indian Mission to the United Nations affirmed its support for the joint statement issued by 34 countries in defense of UNIFIL and the safety of its personnel. The mission also stressed that peacekeepers’ safety must be prioritized according to existing United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. Currently, 600 Indian soldiers are deployed as part of the UN peacekeeping mission, guarding the 120 km long Blue Line on the Israel-Lebanon border.
UNIFIL Reports Injuries Amid Rising Conflict.
UNIFIL issued an alarming statement on October 12, 2024, revealing that one peacekeeper was injured by gunfire at its Naqoura headquarters during ongoing military activity in the area. The injured soldier, who underwent surgery at a local hospital, is now in stable condition. UNIFIL continues to monitor the situation as tensions in the region persist.
Joe Biden Urges Israel to Halt Strikes on Peacekeepers.
Amid mounting concern, U.S. President Joe Biden has publicly called on Israel to cease attacks on UN peacekeepers, especially after the recent incidents in which two Sri Lankan UNIFIL soldiers were injured. Biden’s appeal comes amid growing fears that the conflict with Hezbollah could result in more harm to peacekeepers stationed in the region.
Ireland and International Community Condemn Violations.
Ireland’s Prime Minister, Simon Harris, has strongly condemned Israel’s attacks on UN peacekeeping forces, labeling them as violations of international law. With 379 Irish soldiers currently stationed in Lebanon as part of the UNIFIL mission, Ireland has a vested interest in the safety of the peacekeepers. Although there were no fatalities in the recent strikes, two Indonesian soldiers were injured in the conflict on Thursday, further intensifying international scrutiny of Israel’s actions.
As the situation along the Israel-Lebanon border intensifies, the United Nations and global leaders are calling for restraint, stressing the importance of protecting those who are in Lebanon to maintain peace and stability.