The French minister has issued a warning about the high risk associated with the UNIFIL mission

French army minister Sebastien Lecornu, during a visit to a French UNIFIL contingent in Deir Kifa, expressed concerns about the escalating dangers of the UNIFIL’s mission amidst rising border tensions in south Lebanon. He met with Lebanese Army Chief Joseph Aoun on Monday to discuss the U.N. mission and strategies for ensuring the safety of both Lebanese and UNIFIL soldiers in this volatile environment.

Lecornu cautioned about the increasing risks and uncertainties facing the mission in the coming weeks and days, acknowledging the potential dangers involved. He emphasized the importance of being prepared for the challenging situation ahead.

France is a significant contributor to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, with nearly 700 troops deployed in the region. Since October 8, the Lebanon-Israel border has experienced intensifying skirmishes between the Israeli army and Hezbollah, the latter claiming to act in support of Gaza.

The U.N. force has experienced several incidents of being caught in Israeli fire, although no fatalities among the peacekeepers have been reported. Lecornu conveyed to Aoun that war is avoidable and neither side has an interest in escalating to war.

Additionally, Lecornu is scheduled to meet with Aoun again on Tuesday to discuss the delivery of armored vehicles to the Lebanese Army.