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The recent escalation of tensions along the Blue Line, the border between Lebanon and Israel, has raised serious concerns regarding the safety of United Nations peacekeepers. The incident, involving an Israeli strike that injured two UNIFIL personnel during an engagement with Hezbollah, has prompted India, a major contributor to the peacekeeping force, to express its strong support for ensuring the security of its personnel.
India's Permanent Mission to the United Nations has aligned itself fully with the joint statement issued by 34 countries contributing troops to UNIFIL. This statement underscores the paramount importance of safeguarding the safety and security of peacekeepers, emphasizing adherence to existing UN Security Council resolutions. The Indian government, recognizing the vital role played by UNIFIL in maintaining stability in the region, has stressed the need for all parties involved to respect the inviolability of UN premises and take necessary measures to guarantee the safety of its personnel and the sanctity of their mandate.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) acknowledged the incident, stating that their soldiers operating in southern Lebanon identified an immediate threat against them and responded with fire. While IDF indicated that the strike on the UNIFIL post, located approximately 50 meters from the source of the threat, resulted in the injury of two peacekeepers, the incident highlights the volatile nature of the conflict zone and the inherent risks faced by UNIFIL personnel. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the current peacekeeping mission and the need for stronger measures to protect UN personnel.
Despite the recent injuries and damage to their facilities, UNIFIL peacekeepers stationed in southern Lebanon have decided to maintain their positions near the border. This decision, made after Israel requested UNIFIL to withdraw from positions up to five kilometers from the Blue Line, underscores the commitment of the peacekeeping force to its mission. The spokesperson for UNIFIL, Andrea Tenenti, emphasized the importance of the UN flag flying high in the region and the necessity of reporting to the Security Council, justifying the decision to stay despite the risks.
The escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah poses a significant threat to regional stability and the safety of UN peacekeepers. Tenenti expressed concern that the recent escalation could potentially escalate into a regional conflict with catastrophic consequences. The only viable solution, according to Tenenti, lies in diplomatic means, highlighting the crucial role of international diplomacy in de-escalating tensions and restoring peace to the region. The international community must continue to exert pressure on all parties involved to refrain from actions that could further escalate the conflict and endanger the lives of UN peacekeepers.
Source: 'Security of peacekeepers of paramount importance': India on Israel-Lebanon conflict