UN Condemns Israeli Strikes on Peacekeepers

The escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has intensified, drawing international condemnation due to Israeli strikes on the United Nations peacekeeping force, UNIFIL. The United Nations and several international entities have criticized these attacks, which have resulted in injuries to at least five peacekeepers, primarily blamed on Israeli forces. The European Union and countries contributing troops to UNIFIL, including India, have called for the protection of peacekeepers and adherence to international law, highlighting the critical role of UNIFIL in maintaining stability along the Blue Line. Israeli military actions have been labeled as deliberate, violating UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which mandates the deployment of only Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. Despite Israeli claims that Hezbollah operates near civilian and UNIFIL areas, the international community has urged Israel to cease attacks on UN positions, with calls for investigations into these incidents. The situation reflects worsening relations between Israel and the UN, as Israel has declared the UN Secretary-General persona non grata, further complicating peace efforts in the region.