Israeli Drone Attack on UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon Raises International Concern
An Israeli drone attack on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon has sparked international concern. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that Israeli drones dropped grenades near its peacekeepers, describing it as one of the most serious attacks
on its personnel since a November ceasefire.
Context and Background
The incident occurred on Tuesday morning while UNIFIL personnel were clearing roadblocks near a UN position southeast of the Lebanese village of Marwahin. The UN force said that Israel had been notified in advance of the operation. One grenade reportedly landed within 20 meters and three others within approximately 100 meters of UN personnel and vehicles.
The UNIFIL statement said, Any actions endangering UN peacekeepers and assets, and interference with their mandated tasks are unacceptable and a serious violation of Resolution 1701 and international law,
referring to the UN resolution that ended the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah.
Key Developments
According to multiple sources, including Al Jazeera English, Middle East Eye, and The Guardian, Israeli drones dropped four grenades near the peacekeepers. The Times of Israel reported that the UN force accused Israel of a drone attack on peacekeepers, with one grenade landing just 20 meters away.
La Repubblica reported that the incident had fueled tensions between the Israeli state and the UN peacekeepers, with the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) rejecting the accusations. The IDF also claimed to have killed two Hezbollah-linked operatives in strikes on southern Lebanon, asserting that the men were violating the truce.
Reactions and Implications
UNIFIL condemned the attack as a serious violation of international law and the 2006 UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which underpins the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. The incident has heightened tension between Israel and the UN peacekeeping force and raised questions about the stability of the ceasefire.
Meanwhile, Israel has been accused of using drones for other attacks as well. Al Jazeera English reported that Israel used quadcopter drones to drop incendiary bombs on ambulances parked outside a clinic in Gaza City.
Current Status
Despite the IDF's denial, the incident has strained relations between the Israel and the UN peacekeeping force and brought the stability of the November ceasefire into question. At present, no casualties have been reported from the drone attack.
This incident marks an escalation in tensions, with the international community keeping a close watch on developments. UNIFIL has called for restraint and adherence to the ceasefire, stressing the importance of peace in the region.