Lebanon Condemns Attack on UN Staff in Southern Lebanon
Lebanon’s caretaker prime minister, Najib Mikati, has strongly condemned a recent incident in which three UN observers and a translator were wounded by shelling in southern Lebanon. The attack occurred while the UN staff were carrying out a patrol in an area where Hezbollah and Israel have been engaged in hostilities since October 8 last year.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is currently investigating the source of the attack. Lebanon’s Foreign Ministry has filed an urgent complaint before the UN Security Council, accusing Israel of targeting the patrol.
According to reports, the UN observers were traveling in an SUV near the B37 point on the Blue Line when a shell hit their vehicle, injuring them. The injured individuals, who are from Australia, Chile, Norway, and Lebanon, were promptly evacuated by a UNIFIL helicopter to Saint George Hospital in Beirut for treatment.
In response to the attack, Lebanon’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement denouncing Israel’s actions as a violation of international law and humanitarian principles. The ministry accused Israel of consistently disregarding resolutions of international legitimacy and targeting civilians, journalists, first responders, and children.
The incident comes amidst escalating tensions between Hezbollah and Israel, with cross-border strikes occurring frequently in recent months. Israel has reportedly intensified its drone campaign in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah fighters and officials. Lebanese media reports have suggested that the injured UN staff may have been hit by an Israeli drone.
While some sources have speculated about Israeli involvement in the attack, a UNIFIL spokesperson emphasized the need for a thorough investigation before assigning blame to any party. The spokesperson stressed the importance of ensuring the safety and security of UN personnel and called on all parties to uphold their responsibilities under international humanitarian law.
Meanwhile, Israel has continued its military operations against Hezbollah, conducting airstrikes on several towns in southern Lebanon. In response, Hezbollah claimed to have targeted Israeli military assets using rockets in retaliation for the attacks.
The recent attack on UN staff underscores the volatile situation in southern Lebanon and the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. As tensions remain high in the region, it is crucial for all parties to exercise restraint and prioritize the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers.
The international community must also play a proactive role in de-escalating the situation and promoting dialogue to prevent further violence and instability in Lebanon. Only through diplomatic efforts and respect for international law can lasting peace and stability be achieved in the region.