On Sunday, UN peacekeepers stationed in Lebanon reported a breach by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) at one of its positions in southern Lebanon. The incident, which occurred at around 4:30 a.m., involved two IDF Merkava tanks forcibly entering the position by destroying the main gate while peacekeepers were in shelters.
According to the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), the tanks requested multiple times for the base to turn out its lights and left approximately 45 minutes later after UNIFIL protested through its liaison mechanism, citing the endangerment of peacekeepers due to the IDF presence.
UNIFIL condemned the IDF's actions as a flagrant violation of international law and Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) and has requested an explanation from the Israeli military regarding the incident.
In a separate incident in the same area, UNIFIL reported that 15 of its soldiers required treatment after rounds were fired approximately 100 meters north of the position, emitting smoke that caused skin irritation and gastrointestinal reactions among the peacekeepers.
Furthermore, UNIFIL mentioned that the IDF had obstructed a critical logistical movement near Meiss el Jabal, denying passage. The statement emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of UN personnel and property, as well as respecting the inviolability of UN premises at all times.
