Shooting at UNIFIL forces in Lebanon, and armed groups are likely to be responsible

The shooting took place in Yater at a close distance of five meters from the peacekeepers. The source of the shooting in the other two incidents, according to a statement issued by the peacekeeping mission, was about 100 meters and 200 meters away, respectively.

Two patrols responded by firing in self-defense, and after a short exchange of fire, the patrols resumed their planned activities. No peacekeepers were injured.

The UN mission said that the presence of weapons outside the control of the state within UNIFIL’s area of ​​operations constitutes a violation of UN Security Council Resolution No. 1701. “It is unacceptable to target peacekeeping forces carrying out tasks assigned to them by the Security Council.”

UNIFIL strongly reminded all parties of their duties under international law, to ensure the safety and security of United Nations personnel at all times, and to take all necessary measures to prevent harm to civilians.

She said that any attack on UNIFIL peacekeepers constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law and Resolution 1701, and may amount to a war crime.

During his visit to Lebanon, the Secretary-General of the United Nations stressed the necessity of respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and praised the government’s decision to restrict weapons to the state. He said that the time is now “It is no longer the time for armed factions, but rather the time for strong countries.”