Lebanon: Netanyahu demands the departure of UNIFIL, the UN refuses

This article was originally published in English

For several days, the UN has accused the Israeli army of targeting the positions of Blue Helmets in Lebanon. But Benjamin Netanyahu assures us: the IDF did not deliberately attack UNIFIL. The Israeli Prime Minister promises to continue to mercilessly strike Hezbollah in all regions of Lebanon, including Beirut. And again calls for the departure of the peacekeepers.

“The accusation that Israel deliberately attacked UNIFIL personnel is completely false. It is exactly the opposite. Israel has repeatedly asked UNIFIL to seek safety. They have been repeatedly asked to temporarily leave the combat zone, which is right next to Israel’s border with Lebanon. The best way to ensure the safety of UNIFIL personnel is to listen to Israel’s request and withdraw. temporarily from the conflict zone”declared Benjamin Netanyahu.

Mr Netanyahu says Israel has “asked repeatedly” the peacekeeping force to leave the area where the Israeli army operates. The 10,000-strong United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has been patrolling the border area between Lebanon and Israel for almost 50 years.

At least five UNIFIL personnel have been injured since Israel began its ground incursion into Lebanon two weeks ago, sparking criticism of Israeli operations.

While some wonder about the future of UNIFIL in Lebanon, the UN secretary general for peace operations said Monday that the Blue Helmets would maintain their current positions in the country.

UN says attacks on peacekeepers could constitute war crimes

Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, told reporters on Monday that “Attacks against peacekeeping forces are contrary to international law, including international humanitarian law, and may constitute war crimes. Antonio Guterres called on all parties, including the Israeli military, to refrain of any action endangering our peacekeepers.

The United Nations Security Council said “very concerned” and reiterated its support for the role of the peacekeeping mission “in support of regional security”. The 15 members of the Council continue to strongly support the presence of UNIFIL in southern Lebanon, emphasizing their decision to maintain it in all its positions.

Council members also expressed their “deep concern” in the face of civilian casualties, destruction of infrastructure and the growing number of displaced people. They called on all parties to respect international humanitarian law, which requires the protection of civilians.

The Security Council “also stressed the need for diplomatic efforts to bring a lasting end to the conflict and allow civilians on both sides of the Blue Line to return home safely”.