United Nations peacekeepers in Lebanon have accused the Israeli army of deliberately damaging one of their positions in southern Lebanon. The incident involved an Israeli army bulldozer demolishing an observation tower and perimeter fence of a UN position, despite the presence of UN forces in the area. UNIFIL has called on Israel to respect the safety and security of UN personnel and property, and to stop breaching UN positions, which is seen as a violation of international law.
This latest incident comes after a series of attacks on UNIFIL positions by Israeli forces, including tank fire on watchtowers and destruction of the main gate at a UN position. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has demanded the removal of UN peacekeepers from combat zones, accusing them of providing a “human shield” for Hezbollah, a Lebanese armed group that Israel has been targeting in southern Lebanon. However, the UN has reiterated that its mission, which has been in place since 1978 and consists of troops from over 50 countries, will not be moved.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the attacks on UN peacekeepers as a violation of international law and a possible war crime. The escalating tensions in southern Lebanon highlight the longstanding conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as the challenges faced by UN peacekeeping missions in the region. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to exchange accusations and engage in military actions.
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