UNIFIL Vehicle Damaged in Southern Lebanon
UNIFIL Patrol Targeted in Gunfire Incident
A United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) vehicle incurred damage when it was hit by gunfire from the Israel Defense Forces, according to UNIFIL’s official statement.
Location and Time of the Incident
The incident occurred around 12 p.m. local time in the area of Aytaroun, located in southern Lebanon.
No Casualties Reported
Fortunately, the attack took place during a period of relative calm along the Blue Line, and no peacekeepers were injured.
UNIFIL Urges Ceasefire
Major General Arolodo Lázaro Sáenz, the head of mission and force commander of UNIFIL, recently called for an end to the cycle of violence along the Blue Line. UNIFIL emphasizes the potential devastating consequences of any further escalation.
“This attack on peacekeepers, dedicated to reducing tensions & restoring stability in south Lebanon, is deeply troubling,” UNIFIL expressed its concerns regarding the incident.
UNIFIL Condemns the Attack
UNIFIL strongly condemns the attack on its peacekeepers and reminds all parties involved in the conflict of their obligation to protect the peacekeepers and avoid endangering those working towards stability.
Israeli Defense Forces’ Response
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the incident and stated that they are currently verifying the details of the report.
Understanding the Context
Israel-Hezbollah Conflict
It’s important to note that the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed paramilitary group, Hezbollah, primarily takes place in northern Israel and southern Lebanon. This is separate from Israel’s conflict with Hamas, which is centered around Gaza.
Potential Involvement of Hezbollah
Recent clashes with Hezbollah have heightened concerns that the Lebanese group could become more actively involved in the conflict. However, their involvement thus far has been limited to their attacks along the border region.
Hezbollah’s Stance on the Conflict
Hezbollah has expressed strong support for the Palestinians and has condemned Israel’s offensive in Gaza. However, they have refrained from intervening on behalf of Hamas. The group links its attacks on Israel to Israel’s actions against Lebanese territory.
Read More of this Story at www.cnn.com – 2023-11-25 17:40:00
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