UN member states expressed concern Thursday over Israeli attacks on positions of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The US Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Robert Wood, stated that they are deeply concerned about the reported injuries to UN peacekeepers and wish them a speedy recovery.
Wood emphasized the importance of all parties, including Israel, respecting the safety and security of UNIFIL personnel and premises to avoid incidents that put them at risk. The US recognizes Israel’s right to protect its citizens but urges them to minimize harm to civilians.
Russian Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya condemned Israel’s actions, calling them a war crime that requires a decisive reaction. Algerian Ambassador Amar Bendjama expressed concern over Israeli aggression in Lebanon and stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of UN personnel and property.
The Lebanese ambassador, Hadi Hachem, criticized Israel for jeopardizing UNIFIL’s safety and called for an immediate ceasefire. Iranian Ambassador Amir Saeed Iravani labeled Israel a terrorist regime committing war crimes.
The European Union also condemned the attacks on UN peacekeepers and emphasized the need to respect UNIFIL’s presence for regional stability.