UNIFIL Accuses Israel of Targeting Positions Deliberately

UNIFIL has accused the Israeli military of intentionally targeting its positions and recently damaging a fence and concrete structure at a UNIFIL site in Ras Naqoura. According to a UNIFIL statement, two Israeli excavators and a bulldozer destroyed parts of the fence and structure, despite the mission’s immediate protest. The IDF, however, denied operating within the UNIFIL position.

UNIFIL called this action a clear violation of international law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701, stressing that IDF’s actions endanger UN personnel and breach the integrity of UN property, which should be respected and protected at all times.

Since September 30, the Israeli military has repeatedly urged peacekeepers to vacate positions near the Blue Line, citing safety concerns. UNIFIL clarified that this recent incident, along with seven others, did not involve accidental crossfire but rather intentional actions by the IDF.

Additionally, UNIFIL noted with concern the recent removal of two blue barrels that mark the UN-delineated boundary between Lebanon and Israel. Peacekeepers observed the IDF removing one of these markers.

Despite increasing pressure, UNIFIL stated that its personnel would continue their monitoring and reporting duties as mandated by Resolution 1701.