Netanyahu Calls for UNIFIL Evacuation Amid Tensions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called on the United Nations to immediately evacuate its UNIFIL peacekeeping forces from southern Lebanon, citing the danger posed by ongoing conflicts with Hezbollah. He claims that the presence of UNIFIL troops makes them 'human shields' and 'hostages' of Hezbollah, as the Israeli Defense Forces have reportedly fired on UNIFIL positions, injuring several peacekeepers. Despite Netanyahu's calls, UNIFIL has decided to remain in the area, maintaining its mandate to monitor the ceasefire from the 2006 Lebanon war. Netanyahu's demand has been met with criticism from Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who views it as a violation of international norms. Meanwhile, international condemnation has arisen over the attacks on UNIFIL, with entities like the EU demanding accountability from Israel. This situation underscores the escalating tensions between Israel, Hezbollah, and the UN.