Lebanese Official Accuses Israel of Intentionally Targeting UNIFIL and National Army

“A Lebanese political figure has accused Israel of using southern Lebanon as a platform for conveying messages to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. This accusation comes in light of repeated Israeli strikes on UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) positions in the area, as reported by the Asharq al-Awsat newspaper.

According to the source, Israel’s actions are intentional and serve a dual purpose. Firstly, they are a direct communication to Guterres, challenging his use of Article 99, which is within his power. Secondly, these attacks are a signal to the Lebanese Army, demonstrated through the targeting of its bases.

The conflict has resulted in significant casualties. Since October 7, over 120 individuals on the Lebanese side, predominantly Hezbollah members and civilians, have lost their lives, as per an AFP report.

Israel, on its part, has reported the death of six soldiers and four civilians. Additionally, Lebanon mourned its first military casualty in these clashes last Tuesday. The ongoing conflict has also led to injuries among several Lebanese soldiers and UNIFIL troops.”