Israel's drone strike targets United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon personnel, incurring condemnation
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has accused Israel of a serious violation of Resolution 1701 and international law, following an incident where Israeli forces dropped grenades near UNIFIL peacekeepers in southern Lebanon.
The attack occurred on Wednesday, while UNIFIL peacekeepers were clearing roadblocks hindering access to a U.N. position. One grenade impacted within 20 meters and three within approximately 100 meters of U.N. personnel and vehicles, according to UNIFIL statements. This incident is considered one of the most serious attacks on UNIFIL personnel and assets since the cessation of hostilities agreement of last November.
Under the terms of the agreement, UNIFIL has been assisting the Lebanese army in dismantling Hezbollah military infrastructure in the south. The cease-fire from last year stipulates that only the Lebanese army and U.N. peacekeepers can deploy in south Lebanon, excluding both the Israeli army and Hezbollah from the region.
Israel has maintained occupying troops in five strategic locations and continues to strike Hezbollah targets, claiming the campaign will continue until the armed group has been disarmed. However, the Israeli army did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment regarding the incident.
The U.S. administration dangled a veto threat during the Security Council vote last week, which voted for U.N. peacekeepers (UNIFIL) to leave Lebanon in 2027, with a final extension of its mandate allowed only after pressure. The U.N. Security Council resolution that formed the basis of last year's cease-fire is being violated by actions endangering U.N. peacekeepers and assets.
UNIFIL had informed the Israeli military in advance of its plans to carry out road clearance work near the de facto border southeast of the village of Marwahin. The U.N. force, along with the international community, is calling for an immediate investigation into the incident and for Israel to uphold its obligations under international law.
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