In a stark warning on Sunday, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres declared that any attacks on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon could be considered war crimes.
This statement comes in the wake of alarming reports that Israeli tanks have breached the gates of a peacekeeping base in southern Lebanon, raising concerns about the safety of international personnel.
According to U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, the recent aggression is part of a troubling pattern of violations against the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
“UNIFIL peacekeepers remain in all positions, and the U.N. flag continues to fly,” Dujarric affirmed, underscoring the commitment to maintaining peace despite rising tensions in the region.
Guterres emphasized that the protection of peacekeepers is paramount and that targeting them not only violates international law but also undermines efforts to foster stability.
“Attacks against peacekeepers are in breach of international law, including international humanitarian law,” he said. “They may constitute a war crime.”
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The situation has escalated recently, with UNIFIL facing increasing hostility amid ongoing conflicts. The U.N. mission has been stationed in southern Lebanon since 1978, aiming to maintain peace and security along the border with Israel.
However, the current climate raises fears that peacekeepers may become unintended victims in the broader conflict.
Guterres’s statements reflect the growing concern among international leaders about the fragile peace in the region.
As tensions escalate, the U.N. is calling for all parties to respect the sanctity of peacekeeping operations.
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The international community is watching closely, urging both sides to engage in dialogue and prioritize the safety of civilians and peacekeepers alike.
As the situation unfolds, the commitment to safeguarding UNIFIL personnel remains critical for ensuring ongoing stability in a region often marred by conflict.