On October 13, 2024, a troubling incident occurred at a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) base in southern Lebanon. According to reports from the Mission, at approximately 04:30 local time, two Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Merkava tanks destroyed the main gate of the base and entered the position while peacekeepers were in shelters. The tanks reportedly requested multiple times for the base to turn out its lights.
UNIFIL issued a statement indicating that the tanks left the base about 45 minutes later after the Mission protested through its liaison mechanism, citing that the presence of IDF tanks was putting peacekeepers in danger. However, the situation escalated further at around 06:40 when peacekeepers at the same position reported the firing of several rounds approximately 100 meters north, resulting in the emission of smoke.
Despite the peacekeepers putting on protective masks, fifteen of them suffered adverse effects including skin irritation and gastrointestinal reactions after the smoke entered the camp. The affected peacekeepers are currently receiving treatment for their symptoms.
UNIFIL, established by the UN Security Council, is mandated with monitoring the cessation of hostilities following the war between Israel and Hezbollah, confirming the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, and assisting the Lebanese government in restoring its authority in the area.
These recent security incidents come amidst heightened tensions in the region, where five UN peacekeepers have been injured, and UN positions and premises have sustained damage. One peacekeeper at UNIFIL’s headquarters in Naqoura was hit by gunfire on Friday night during nearby military activity. The bullet was successfully removed after surgery, but the origin of the fire remains unknown. Additionally, buildings at the UNIFIL position in Ramyah suffered significant damage due to explosions from nearby shelling on the same night.
On Saturday, IDF soldiers obstructed a critical UNIFIL logistical movement near Meiss ej Jebel, preventing its completion. UNIFIL expressed concern over these actions, reminding the IDF and all actors of their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property, as well as to respect the inviolability of UN premises at all times.
UNIFIL emphasized that any deliberate attack on peacekeepers and breaching and entering a UN position are serious violations of international law and Security Council resolution 1701 (2006). The Mission pointed out that UNIFIL’s mandate includes freedom of movement in its area of operations, and any restriction on this freedom is also considered a violation.
In response to these incidents, UNIFIL has requested an explanation from the IDF regarding the “shocking violations” that have occurred. The Mission is committed to upholding its mandate and ensuring the safety and security of its personnel in the region.
As tensions continue to escalate in southern Lebanon, UNIFIL remains vigilant in its efforts to maintain peace and stability in the area. The Mission’s peacekeepers are dedicated to their mission of promoting security and peace in the region, despite facing challenges and threats to their safety.
