Security Council Calls for Protection of UNIFIL Forces in Southern Lebanon
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has expressed its solidarity with UNIFIL forces in southern Lebanon in the wake of recent Israeli attacks on the UN peacekeeping mission. The council emphasized the need for all parties involved to uphold the safety and security of UNIFIL personnel and facilities, stressing that peacekeepers should never be targeted.
Despite mounting pressure from Israel for UNIFIL to vacate its positions in Lebanon, the UN force has affirmed its commitment to remain in place under the Security Council’s mandate. The Security Council’s statement comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling for UNIFIL to move out of harm’s way.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the attacks on UN peacekeepers, labeling them as potential war crimes. The UNIFIL mission, comprised of peacekeepers from over 50 countries, continues to monitor the situation along the Blue Line, where the majority of fire has been initiated from Israeli territory into Lebanon.