Beirut: UNIFIL statement on attack on peacekeepers clearing roadblocks: The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) released a statement detailing a significant security incident involving its peacekeepers near the Blue Line.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the incident occurred when Israel Defense Forces (IDF) drones dropped four grenades in close proximity to UNIFIL personnel who were actively engaged in clearing roadblocks that impeded access to a UN position.
The statement emphasized that this attack is among the most serious directed at UNIFIL personnel and assets since the agreement on the cessation of hostilities last November. The grenades landed alarmingly close to the peacekeepers, with one grenade impacting within 20 meters and three others within approximately 100 meters of the UN personnel and their vehicles. Following the assault, the drones were seen retreating to the south of the Blue Line.
UNIFIL had previously informed the IDF about the road clearance operation scheduled to take place in the region southeast of the village of Marwahin. However, due to safety concerns for the peacekeepers, the operation was halted in the aftermath of the incident.
The statement underscored that actions endangering UN peacekeepers and their assets, as well as interference with their mandated duties, are unacceptable. Such actions constitute a serious violation of Resolution 1701 and international law. It further stated that it is the responsibility of the IDF to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers performing tasks as mandated by the Security Council.