Forty countries contributing to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon have condemned recent Israeli attacks on their forces. They are calling for an investigation into these incidents.
According to a news report published on politico.eu on Sunday, in the past few days, at least five members of the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission have been wounded amid escalating violence in southern Lebanon following Israel's ground invasion against Hezbollah.
The countries stated, "We strongly condemn recent attacks on UNIFIL peacekeepers," emphasizing that such actions must cease immediately and be thoroughly investigated. They highlighted the crucial role of UNIFIL in the current tense situation, as detailed in a statement shared by the Polish mission to the U.N. on X.
The statement urged all parties in the conflict to ensure the safety of peacekeeping personnel so they can continue their mission of mediation and support for peace. Spain, France, and Italy have already described the attacks on UNIFIL as "unjustifiable." U.S. President Joe Biden also expressed his concern, stating he is "absolutely, positively" urging Israel to stop targeting U.N. peacekeepers. UNIFIL has reported that its facilities have been "repeatedly hit," with Israeli forces allegedly firing directly at its headquarters in Naqoura. While Israeli forces requested UNIFIL to withdraw from certain positions, spokesperson Andrea Tenenti confirmed that there was a "unanimous decision to stay" in the area. UNIFIL was established in 1978 to oversee Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon and restore peace. Its mandate was expanded in 2006 during the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, and it now includes over 10,000 troops from 50 countries, along with approximately 800 civilian staff.
