Tensions Escalate in Lebanon as UN Peacekeepers Injured in Israeli Strikes

Israeli airstrikes have once again hit the central Beirut neighborhood of Bachoura, marking the second such occasion in recent times. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) targeted a building previously housing a health clinic, which they described as affiliated with Hezbollah. The initial strike resulted in the deaths of nine individuals. Onlookers in the area, including BBC staff, observed two plumes of smoke following these strikes, although the exact number of strikes remains undetermined. Notably, no prior warnings were issued by the IDF before these assaults.

Over the past 24 hours, tensions have increased with the IDF targeting several UN positions in southern Lebanon. These actions have prompted a “deep concern” response from the French foreign ministry, condemning any aggression towards the safety of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil). The ministry has demanded explanations from Israeli authorities, affirming that none of the approximately 700 French troops in Unifil have been injured.

The UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon reported that its headquarters in Naqoura and other positions were “repeatedly hit” by Israeli fire. This resulted in injuries to two Indonesian peacekeepers. Josep Borrell, the European Union‘s foreign policy chief, described these developments as an unacceptable breach of international humanitarian law, specifically referencing UN Security Council Resolution 1701. This resolution calls for full accountability from Israel concerning its obligations to respect UN peacekeepers.

Unifil, comprising around 10,000 military peacekeepers and 800 civilian staff, operates in southern Lebanon to ensure stability and safety in the region. The force was initially established in 1978 following Israel’s invasion of southern Lebanon. It has continued its mission over the decades, adjusting mandates to monitor hostilities and support the Lebanese Armed Forces in maintaining control in areas free from armed groups.

Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for ongoing rocket attacks into northern Israel, further escalating the conflict. In recent hours, the group reported launches targeting the Israeli city of Karmiel and firing on soldiers near Naqoura. Meanwhile, the international response continues to reflect mounting concerns over these military engagements and their humanitarian impacts.