BEIRUT: A press statement released by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on Sunday detailed multiple incidents involving Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) that may constitute severe violations of international laws and U.N. resolutions. The incidents, which occurred at a UNIFIL position in Ramyah, included forced entry by IDF tanks and exposure of peacekeepers to potentially harmful substances.
According to National News Agency-Lebanon, UNIFIL reported that early Sunday morning, peacekeepers observed three IDF platoons crossing the Blue Line-a demarcation line between Lebanon and Israel established by the U.N. Subsequently, around 4:30 a.m., two IDF Merkava tanks allegedly destroyed the main gate of the UNIFIL position and forcibly entered, demanding the base to turn out its lights. The position protested the intrusion through a liaison mechanism, leading to the withdrawal of the tanks approximately 45 minutes later.
Further disturbances were reported around 6:40 a.m., when peacekeepers at the
same position experienced skin irritation and gastrointestinal reactions after several smoke rounds were fired near the camp. Fifteen peacekeepers are reportedly receiving medical treatment following the incident. Additionally, IDF soldiers were accused of stopping a critical UNIFIL logistical movement near Meiss ej Jebel, denying it passage which resulted in the failure to complete the operation.
UNIFIL has reminded the IDF and other actors of their obligations under international law and U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, which underscores the safety and security of U.N. personnel and the inviolability of U.N. premises. The statement also highlighted that any deliberate attack on peacekeepers is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and resolution 1701. UNIFIL has requested an explanation from the IDF regarding these incidents.