Israeli tanks forcibly entered a United Nations position in southern Lebanon early Sunday, with UN peacekeepers in the area also experiencing negative effects from smoke after several rounds were fired nearby, as reported by the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
At approximately 4:30 AM local time, while peacekeepers sheltered, two IDF Merkava tanks destroyed the main gate and entered the position.
“They repeatedly requested that the base turn off its lights,” UNIFIL stated in a report.
The tanks departed about 45 minutes later after the Mission protested through its liaison mechanism, expressing that the presence of the Israeli defense forces endangered the peacekeepers.
Later, peacekeepers at the same position observed several rounds fired 100 meters (about 110 yards) to the north, which generated smoke.
“Despite wearing protective masks, fifteen peacekeepers suffered from effects such as skin irritation and gastrointestinal reactions after the smoke entered the camp,” UNIFIL reported.
The affected peacekeepers are currently receiving treatment.
Established by the UN Security Council, UNIFIL monitors the cessation of hostilities following the war between Israel and Hezbollah, verifies the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, and assists the Lebanese government in restoring authority in the region.
These incidents occur amid escalating tensions in the area, where five UN peacekeepers have sustained injuries and UN positions have suffered damage.
This includes a peacekeeper at UNIFIL’s headquarters in Naqoura, who was injured by gunfire on Friday night during nearby military activities. Medical personnel successfully removed the bullet after surgery, but the source of the fire remains unknown.
Additionally, explosions from nearby shelling caused significant damage to buildings at the UNIFIL position in Ramyah that same night.
On Saturday, Israeli soldiers obstructed a crucial UNIFIL logistical movement near Meiss ej Jebel, denying it passage and preventing its completion.
“For the fourth time in four days, we remind the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) and all parties of their obligation to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property and to respect the inviolability of UN premises at all times,” UNIFIL stated.
UNIFIL emphasized that any deliberate attack on peacekeepers and unauthorized entry into a UN position are serious violations of international law and Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).
“UNIFIL’s mandate guarantees its freedom of movement within its operational area, and any restrictions on this are also violations,” the Mission added.
“We have requested an explanation from the IDF regarding these alarming violations.”
Courtesy: APP