UNIFIL Patrol Faces Armed Obstruction and Gunfire in South Lebanon.

Beirut: A UNIFIL patrol comprising French and Finnish peacekeepers encountered a hostile situation in the village of Bedias, as they were obstructed by a group of individuals, one of whom was armed. The patrol was able to navigate past the obstruction and continued on its planned route. However, as the patrol crossed the village of Maarakeh, it was subjected to gunfire, with approximately 40 shots fired from behind, likely by non-state actor members. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the patrol leader ordered an acceleration to safely exit the area, and the team reached safety at a UNIFIL base in Deir Kifa. The Lebanese Armed Forces were immediately informed of the incident. Although the patrol vehicles sustained bullet impacts, there were no injuries to the peacekeepers. UNIFIL's patrols are essential for ensuring the safety of peacekeepers so they can fulfill their mandated duties. An investigation into the incident has been launched by UNIFIL. The statement emphasized the routine targeting of peacekeepers while carrying out Security Council-mandated tasks, highlighting the dangerous conditions faced by UNIFIL personnel in south Lebanon. The responsibility lies with Lebanese authorities to ensure the safety of UNIFIL peacekeepers, allowing them to perform their duties without fear. UNIFIL urged all parties to respect the inviolability of UN personnel and premises, and to avoid actions that endanger UN peacekeepers. Any attack against them is a violation of international laws and Resolution 1701, which underpins UNIFIL's mandate. Despite these challenges, UNIFIL peacekeepers remain dedicated to their positions and will continue to impartially monitor and report on violations of Resolution 1701.