President Biden Urges Restraint Amid Conflict
US President Joe Biden has strongly urged Israel to halt its attacks on United Nations peacekeepers in Lebanon following two incidents within 48 hours. Speaking on the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah, Biden emphasized that the US is “absolutely, positively” calling for an end to such actions, as they pose significant risks to the safety of international peacekeeping forces.
Injuries Among UN Peacekeepers
On Friday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) admitted responsibility for an incident that injured two Sri Lankan soldiers serving with the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil). According to the IDF, its troops were operating near the Unifil base in Naqoura when they identified a potential threat and opened fire. The Israeli military has promised to investigate the matter “at the highest levels.”
A day earlier, two Indonesian Unifil soldiers were injured after falling from an observation tower, which was hit by an Israeli tank shell. These back-to-back incidents have raised concerns about the safety of UN peacekeepers in the region.
International Condemnation
The leaders of France, Italy, and Spain issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s actions, calling them “unjustifiable” and demanding an immediate cessation of attacks on UN positions. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s foreign ministry also voiced strong disapproval, condemning the IDF’s actions that led to the injuries of its soldiers.
UN Investigation and Concerns
The head of UN peacekeeping operations suggested that there is reason to believe that some of the attacks on UN positions in southern Lebanon may have been deliberate, though he stopped short of directly blaming any party. An investigation is underway to determine the full scope of the incidents and ensure the safety of peacekeeping personnel.
Also learn about Five Killed in Israeli Air Strike on Central Beirut, Targeting Hezbollah-Affiliated Building.
