What is the UN's Reaction to Israeli Gunfire at a Base in Lebanon?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The UNIFIL has voiced deep concerns over an incident in which Israeli gunfire struck one of its bases in southeastern Lebanon, marking a troubling escalation in tensions. This report delves into the implications of this event and the ongoing challenges faced by the UN peacekeepers in the region.
Key Takeaways
- UNIFIL reports a direct hit from Israeli gunfire on its base.
- The incident marks the first breach since the ceasefire agreement.
- Lebanon faces increased tensions amidst ongoing conflicts.
- International support for the Lebanese Army is being reinforced.
- Continued monitoring of the Blue Line is crucial for peace.
Beirut, May 15 (NationPress) The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has raised alarms after Israeli gunfire impacted one of its bases located in southeastern Lebanon.
In a statement addressed to the Xinhua news agency on Wednesday, UNIFIL highlighted its deep concerns regarding the recent aggressive actions carried out by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) against its personnel and facilities near the Blue Line. This includes an incident from Tuesday where Israeli fire struck close to a UNIFIL site south of Kfarchouba village.
"During the incident, which took place around 7:20 p.m. local time yesterday, peacekeepers detected two shots fired from south of the Blue Line, with one hitting a UNIFIL base," the statement detailed.
"This incident represents the first direct hit on a UNIFIL position since the ceasefire agreement was established on November 27, 2024," it continued.
Moreover, UNIFIL reported witnessing at least four additional occurrences where the IDF fired near its positions along the Blue Line in recent days, according to Xinhua.
UNIFIL was created in 1978 following the initial Israeli invasion of Lebanon to ensure the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and to assist the Lebanese government in reclaiming control over the region.
Lebanon has experienced intense skirmishes between Hezbollah and Israel since October 2023, following the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
A truce, facilitated by the U.S. and France, has largely remained intact since late November last year, although isolated flare-ups have persisted.
Despite the truce, the Israeli military maintains several strategically significant positions in southern Lebanon and occasionally conducts strikes, asserting they are targeting "Hezbollah threats".
In response to these challenges, the Lebanese Army is progressively deploying in the south and along the border as part of the truce agreement to take on security responsibilities and prevent the presence of militants and weapons.
On Wednesday, the Lebanese Defense Ministry, the Office of the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, and the UN Development Programme in Lebanon signed a tripartite memorandum of understanding to secure and coordinate international support for the Lebanese Army, aiming to strengthen the ongoing collaboration between the Lebanese Army and the UN.
Point of View
The situation remains critical as Lebanon grapples with rising tensions. The UN's commitment to peacekeeping is being tested amid ongoing hostilities. The need for international support and dialogue is paramount to prevent further escalation and maintain stability in the region.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the recent gunfire incident involving UNIFIL?
The incident was a result of Israeli gunfire targeting areas near a UNIFIL position, marking a significant escalation in tensions.
How has UNIFIL responded to the gunfire?
UNIFIL has expressed serious concern and condemned the aggressive actions of the Israeli Defense Forces against its personnel and assets.
What is the significance of the ceasefire agreement?
The ceasefire agreement, effective since November 27, 2024, was intended to stabilize the region and prevent hostilities, but recent incidents suggest ongoing challenges.
What role does the Lebanese Army play in this situation?
The Lebanese Army is working to enhance security responsibilities in the south as part of the truce deal, aiming to prevent the presence of militants and weapons.
What actions are being taken to support the Lebanese Army?
A tripartite memorandum of understanding was signed to coordinate international support for the Lebanese Army, enhancing collaboration with UN forces.
