Escalating Tensions in Southern Lebanon
India has voiced serious concerns regarding the safety of United Nations peacekeepers stationed in southern Lebanon, following recent Israeli attacks targeting Hezbollah positions in the region. Notably, 600 Indian soldiers are part of the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, positioned along the 120-km Blue Line that marks the border between Israel and Lebanon.
UN Peacekeepers Under Fire
In a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs, India emphasized its apprehension about the deteriorating security situation along the Blue Line. The ministry called for respect for the inviolability of UN premises and highlighted the need for measures to ensure the safety of peacekeepers and the integrity of their mandate.
This statement followed reports from the UN indicating that the Naqoura headquarters of the United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon (UNIFIL) and nearby positions have been repeatedly struck by Israeli forces. Recently, two peacekeepers were injured when an Israeli tank fired on the observation tower at the UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura.
Recent Incidents and Escalation
According to the UN, while the injuries sustained by the peacekeepers were not serious, they are currently receiving medical attention. The situation in the region has intensified following the assassination of former Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, leading Israel to increase its military operations in southern Lebanon.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have claimed that Hezbollah operates near UNIFIL positions, which raises concerns about the safety of peacekeepers. The IDF stated that they maintain routine communication with UNIFIL and instructed UN forces to stay in protected areas during their operations in the vicinity of Naqoura.
As tensions continue to rise, the international community is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of UN peacekeepers and the stability of the region.
