UNITED NATIONS, Oct 14 (APP): On Sunday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized that the safety and security of UN personnel and property must be protected. He issued this reminder following a “deliberate breach” by Israeli armored vehicles of a UN peacekeeping position in southern Lebanon, warning that such actions could potentially qualify as “war crimes.”
The incident occurred early Sunday morning when two Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Merkava tanks forcefully entered the peacekeeping site by destroying its main gate, according to the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). About two hours after the tanks withdrew, several rounds were fired nearby, producing smoke that affected the peacekeepers stationed inside.
These events came on the heels of several recent security incidents aimed at peacekeepers. According to UNIFIL, five peacekeepers have sustained injuries, UN facilities have been damaged, and critical Mission movements have faced disruptions.
“The Secretary-General reiterates that UN personnel and property must be safeguarded at all times, and the sanctity of UN premises must remain intact,” stated UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric in an official statement.
Guterres also expressed his admiration for the dedication of UNIFIL personnel, noting that “peacekeepers remain stationed at all their posts, and the UN flag continues to fly.”
The statement further mentioned that UNIFIL constantly evaluates all factors to adjust its presence and stance while taking every possible measure to protect its peacekeepers.
“UNIFIL operates in southern Lebanon under a mandate given by the UN Security Council,” the statement added. “Within this framework, UNIFIL is dedicated to supporting a diplomatic solution grounded in Resolution 1701, which remains the only viable path forward.”
UNIFIL, established by the Security Council, is responsible for monitoring the cessation of hostilities after the 2006 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. It also confirms the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and helps the Lebanese government re-establish its authority in the region.
The Secretary-General stressed that attacks on UNIFIL personnel or premises must never occur.
“Any attack on peacekeepers violates international law, including humanitarian law, and may be considered a war crime,” the statement noted.
Guterres urged all parties, including the IDF, to refrain from actions that put UN peacekeepers in harm’s way. He also renewed his call for a ceasefire and the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701.
Courtesy: APP
