Israeli Tanks Force Entry into UN Peacekeeping Position in Southern Lebanon
The UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon, known as Unifil, reported that Israeli tanks breached one of its positions in Ramyah near the Israeli border early on Sunday morning. According to Unifil, two Israel Defense Forces (IDF) tanks destroyed the main gate of the post and forcibly entered to request that the lights be turned off.
Shortly after the incursion, rounds were fired nearby, causing smoke to enter the camp and resulting in 15 peacekeepers experiencing skin irritations and gastrointestinal reactions. The IDF, however, provided a different account of the events, stating that they had entered the Unifil position to evacuate soldiers wounded by an anti-tank missile.
The incident is the latest in a series of encounters between Unifil and Israeli forces, with Israel urging the peacekeeping force to withdraw from areas where fighting with Hezbollah, an armed group, is ongoing. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for Unifil troops to be removed from harm’s way, claiming their presence made them “hostages of Hezbollah.”
Unifil has refused these requests, citing their obligation to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property. The peacekeeping force described the breach of its post in Ramyah as a violation of international law and criticized Israel for blocking critical logistical movements near the border.
The escalating tensions have led to injuries among peacekeepers in recent days, prompting condemnation from several countries, including France, Italy, and Spain. Netanyahu, however, shifted the blame to Hezbollah, accusing the group of exploiting their proximity to UN forces.
Despite calls for withdrawal, Unifil officials have stood firm in their decision to remain in the region, emphasizing the importance of the UN presence in maintaining stability. Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nijab Mikati condemned Netanyahu’s stance, calling for international intervention to halt Israeli aggression.
The situation remains volatile as both sides continue to clash over the presence of UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, raising concerns about the safety and security of personnel in the region.
