The governments of France, Italy, and Spain have issued a joint statement condemning the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) for attacks on United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. Describing the assaults as “unjustifiable,” the joint statement highlights the violations of Israel’s obligations under UNSCR 1701 and international humanitarian law. The statement further demands the immediate cessation of these hostilities.
UNSCR 1701, established by the UN Security Council in 2006, called for an end to the fighting between Hezbollah and Israel and the formation of a buffer zone in Lebanon’s south. The joint statement urges all involved parties to respect the resolution, emphasizing that the safety of peacekeepers is vital.
The latest incident resulted in injuries to two peacekeepers when an Israeli tank fired on their observation post. This attack comes on the heels of another security breach when explosions shook the peacekeeping base in Naqoura just days prior. The peacekeepers are part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), tasked with monitoring the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire.
Simon Harris, Ireland’s Taoiseach, also condemned the attacks and urged Israel to heed international concern. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, highlighted the risks to peacekeepers and civilians, arguing for protective measures in the region.
The assaults occur amidst rising hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. The conflict has intensified since October 2023, correlating with the broader tensions between Israel and Palestinian groups. Both sides have engaged in frequent exchanges along the Israel-Lebanon border, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis in the region as civilians flee the violence.
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