Category: Middle East, News

UNIFIL Post Breached: Israeli Tanks Escalate Tensions

Tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border intensified as two Israeli tanks breached a UNIFIL position in Ramyah early Sunday. The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that Israeli tanks destroyed the gate of a post near the border and forcibly entered to demand that peacekeepers turn off their lights.

Incident Sparks International Criticism

Two hours after the breach, smoke rounds were deployed nearby, causing 15 peacekeepers to experience skin irritation and gastrointestinal issues. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), however, provided a different account. They claimed the tanks advanced near the UNIFIL post to evacuate soldiers injured by an anti-tank missile attack.

The IDF explained that during the rescue operation, they deployed a smoke screen to ensure a safe withdrawal. They stressed that no threat was posed to UNIFIL troops and that coordination was maintained throughout the operation.

UN Condemns Actions, Calls for Accountability

UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that attacks on peacekeepers may constitute a war crime and are in breach of international humanitarian law. He emphasized that UNIFIL personnel and property must never be targeted during military operations.

In response, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the actions, reiterating that UNIFIL troops should withdraw from active conflict zones. Netanyahu expressed concern that peacekeepers could become “hostages of Hezbollah” and claimed their presence was providing a “human shield to terrorists”.

UNIFIL firmly refused to comply with Israeli demands to withdraw, with spokesperson Andrea Tenenti stating that their mission remains essential for maintaining peace in the region.

Growing Tensions Along the Border

The incident in Ramyah is part of a broader escalation of hostilities along the Israel-Lebanon border. Hezbollah and Israel have exchanged cross-border fire daily since October, coinciding with the conflict between Hamas and Israel.

The IDF reported that Hezbollah fired 25 rockets and missiles from locations near UNIFIL posts, accusing the group of exploiting proximity to peacekeepers. However, UNIFIL denied involvement, insisting their mission remains neutral.

Peacekeepers Under Fire

UNIFIL soldiers have faced increasing risks in recent weeks. A series of incidents resulted in injuries to peacekeepers, including troops from Sri Lanka and Indonesia.

A Sri Lankan soldier was shot at the UNIFIL headquarters in Naquora, although the origin of the bullet remains unknown.
An Israeli tank fired towards an observation tower, causing two Indonesian peacekeepers to fall and sustain injuries.

These incidents prompted international criticism, with nations like France, Italy, Spain, and the UK condemning the attacks on peacekeepers.

Diplomatic Responses

Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati denounced Netanyahu’s remarks, stating they reflect a “new chapter in Israel’s disregard for international legitimacy.” Mikati urged the international community to intervene and halt Israeli aggression.

UNIFIL, established in 1978, continues to patrol the area between the Litani River and the Blue Line, the UN-recognized boundary between Lebanon and Israel. Despite the risks, peacekeepers remain committed to their mission, insisting their presence is vital for preventing further escalation in the region.