UNIFIL Condemns Israeli Drone Attack on Peacekeepers in Lebanon

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has strongly condemned an attack by Israeli drones that dropped four grenades near peacekeepers conducting road clearance work near the de facto border.

This incident, which occurred recently, is considered one of the most serious attacks on UNIFIL personnel since the November ceasefire agreement aimed at ending hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.

One grenade landed within 20 meters of UN personnel, while three others impacted approximately 100 meters away. UNIFIL had informed the Israeli military about the planned roadwork in advance, raising concerns about the safety and security of peacekeepers.

The attack has sparked widespread criticism, with UNIFIL emphasizing that endangering peacekeepers’ lives is a serious violation of Resolution 1701 and international law.

The incident comes amid a backdrop of the UN Security Council’s decision to extend UNIFIL’s mandate for a final time, with a planned withdrawal by 2027.

The council voted unanimously for the resolution, which includes an “orderly and safe drawdown and withdrawal” of the peacekeeping force.

The development has significant implications for regional security, with ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. The Lebanese government has welcomed the UN Security Council’s vote to renew UNIFIL’s mandate while emphasizing the need for Israel to withdraw its forces from occupied territories. Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem has rejected growing pressure to disarm the group, insisting that Israel must first withdraw from Lebanese territory, release prisoners, and halt attacks.