UN Criticizes Israel's Stance on UNIFIL Amid Tensions

The UN Security Council has expressed strong concern over recent attacks on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon amid escalating conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has denied allegations of deliberate harm to UNIFIL peacekeepers, asserting that Hezbollah uses their positions as cover. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that such attacks could constitute war crimes, while the U.S. urged a diplomatic approach. Israel's call for UNIFIL's withdrawal has been met with criticism, including from Ireland's deputy leader, who accused Netanyahu of undermining international law. Despite these tensions, UNIFIL remains in place, assessing the security situation. Additionally, Israel's military denies reports of using Gazans as human shields during operations in Gaza.