UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon Caught in Crossfire of Israel-Hezbollah Conflict
The UNIFIL mission calls for de-escalation as Israeli and Hezbollah forces intensify attacks, endangering peacekeeping personnel.
- UNIFIL, with 10,000 troops in southern Lebanon, urges dialogue and warns against military solutions to the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
- Israeli forces have expanded operations in Lebanon, with incidents of targeting UNIFIL positions, despite Israeli claims of asking peacekeepers to relocate.
- Hezbollah denies conducting operations near UNIFIL sites, accusing Israel of using these positions for cover during attacks.
- UNIFIL's mandate, under UN Security Council resolution 1701, does not allow disarming Hezbollah, complicating its role amid escalating hostilities.
- The mission, involving troops from countries like Italy and Spain, remains crucial for international monitoring despite recent injuries to peacekeepers.