Tensions escalate for UN peacekeepers in Lebanon as ceasefire efforts continue

By AJP Posted : November 1, 2024, 13:42 Updated : November 1, 2024, 14:33
 
A UN peacekeeper UNIFIL vehicle drives in Marjayoun near the border with Israel southern Lebanon October 29 2024 REUTERSKaramallah Daher
A vehicle of the United Nations Interim Force is seen in southern Lebanon on Oct. 29, 2024. Reuters-Yonhap
SEOUL, November 1 (AJP) - The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) said that there were over 30 incidents in October that resulted in property damage or injuries to its soldiers, amid Israel's calls for peacekeepers to leave their posts.

UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti said that about 20 of these incidents could be linked to Israeli military actions, with seven confirmed as deliberate, while the source of other incidents remains unclear.

Tenenti expressed concern over repeated targeting of peacekeepers and UN equipment, such as cameras and watchtowers, allegedly by the Israeli military. He added that actions by both the Israeli military and Hezbollah have endangered UN personnel.

On Oct. 29, a rocket, allegedly fired by Hezbollah or an affiliate, struck UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura, injuring eight Austrian soldiers. Austria condemned the attack and called for an investigation. Other recent incidents included direct fire from Israeli forces on a UNIFIL position in Kfar Kila and Israeli tanks crossing the Blue Line border, with subsequent smoke rounds causing injuries to peacekeepers.

UNIFIL remains stationed in southern Lebanon to monitor tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border despite Israel's requests for withdrawal, continuing to assist with humanitarian efforts.

Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati indicated in a televised interview that U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein suggested a ceasefire could be reached soon. Hochstein is scheduled to visit Israel on Thursday, while CIA Director William Burns will head to Egypt as part of U.S. efforts to ease regional tensions.
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