UN Peacekeepers Wounded as Israeli Forces Attack Headquarter in Lebanon
Conflict Escalates Between Israel and Hezbollah
A serious incident has occurred in Lebanon as Israeli forces attacked the UN peacekeeping force’s headquarters in the country’s south, wounding two Indonesian peacekeepers. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil) has been monitoring the conflict between Israel and the Lebanese resistance group Hezbollah, and has called for a ceasefire since September 23.
Israeli Forces Attack Unifil Headquarters
According to Unifil, an Israeli tank fired its weapon towards an observation tower at the peacekeeping force’s headquarters in Naqura, causing the two peacekeepers to fall. The two peacekeepers, who were Indonesian, did not suffer serious injuries but remain in hospital.
Israeli Military Actions Continue to Hit Unifil Positions
Unifil reported that the Israeli military had also hit another position in Ras Naqura, damaging vehicles and a communications system. The force also stated that an Israeli drone was observed flying inside the UN position, and that the perimeter-monitoring cameras were disabled by Israeli forces.
Unifil Condemns Israeli Actions
Unifil condemned the Israeli military’s actions, stating that they were in violation of international law and the principles of humanitarian law. The force warned that the actions could compromise the safety and security of UN personnel and property, and urged all parties to respect the inviolability of UN premises at all times.
Ambassador Summoned
In response to the incident, the defence minister of Italy, a key troop contributor to Unifil, summoned the Israeli ambassador today. Unifil also rejected an Israeli demand to relocate from some of its positions last week, which was described by the President of Ireland as an "insult to the most important global institution".
Background to the Conflict
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah began on September 23, with both sides engaging in cross-border fire. Israel has claimed that it is carrying out "limited" incursions across its northern border, while Hezbollah has said it is fighting against Israeli soldiers trying to advance in the area. The conflict has resulted in the displacement of over a million people and the killing of over 1,200 people, according to official figures.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the increasing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, and the need for urgent diplomacy to resolve the conflict. As a major player in the region, the United Nations must continue to play a key role in monitoring the situation and ensuring the safety of its personnel.
FAQs
- What happened at the UN peacekeeping force’s headquarters in Lebanon?
Two Indonesian peacekeepers were wounded when an Israeli tank fired on the observation tower at the UN headquarters in Naqura. - Has there been any other violence against UN personnel?
Yes, Unifil reported that Israeli forces had hit another position in Ras Naqura, damaging vehicles and a communications system, and had also disabled the position’s perimeter-monitoring cameras. - What is the current situation in the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah?
The conflict began on September 23 and has resulted in the displacement of over a million people and the killing of over 1,200 people, according to official figures.