India Denounces Attack on French UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon
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New Delhi, April 18 (NationPress) On Saturday, India expressed its strong condemnation of the assault on French UN Peacekeepers stationed within the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in southern Lebanon. The nation emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation to hold the perpetrators accountable.
Earlier in the day, it was confirmed by French President Emmanuel Macron that one French soldier was killed while three others sustained injuries in the assault on UNIFIL.
"We categorically condemn the attack on French UN Peacekeepers serving in UNIFIL. We honor the memory of the fallen Blue Helmet and wish a swift recovery to the injured peacekeepers," stated a release from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Furthermore, India highlighted its role in spearheading UN Security Council Resolution 2589, which addresses accountability for crimes against peacekeepers. The statement urged the Lebanese government to promptly investigate this incident, bring the attackers to justice, and ensure accountability for this crime against UN personnel.
India reiterated the critical importance of maintaining the sanctity and inviolability of UN facilities and personnel, calling on all involved parties to guarantee the safety and security of Peacekeepers deployed under UN Security Council directives.
According to Macron, the fallen soldier was part of the 17th Parachute Engineer Regiment, and the injured personnel have been evacuated for treatment.
Macron expressed, "The nation bows in respect and extends its support to the families of our soldiers and to all military personnel dedicated to maintaining peace in Lebanon," via a post on X.
The French President indicated that all evidence points to Hezbollah's involvement in the attack, and he urged Lebanese authorities to swiftly apprehend those responsible and assume accountability alongside UNIFIL.
According to UNIFIL, a patrol engaged in clearing explosive ordnance along a route in the village of Ghanduriyah, aimed at reestablishing connections with isolated UNIFIL positions, came under small arms fire from non-state actors. Tragically, one peacekeeper succumbed to his injuries, while three others were injured, two of them seriously.