UN condemns killing of peacekeeper in southern Lebanon attack
UN condemns killing of peacekeeper in southern Lebanon attack
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The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has reported the death of one peacekeeper and injuries to three others after a patrol came under fire in southern Lebanon, prompting strong condemnation from UN officials.
According to UNIFIL, the incident occurred Saturday morning near the village of Ghanduriyah, where peacekeepers were engaged in clearing explosive remnants of war to restore access to isolated UN positions. The patrol was reportedly targeted by small-arms fire from non-state actors.
UNIFIL confirmed that one peacekeeper died from his wounds, while two of the injured remain in serious condition. The wounded were transferred to medical facilities for treatment.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attack, describing it as the third deadly incident involving UN peacekeepers in recent weeks. In a statement, he noted that the attack occurred despite a recently announced 10-day cessation of hostilities and called on all parties to respect the truce and comply with international law.
UNIFIL described the incident as a “deliberate attack” on personnel carrying out mandated duties and stressed that targeting peacekeepers constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law and may amount to a war crime. The mission also urged Lebanese authorities to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
