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EU Condemns Israeli Strikes on UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon
The European Union has issued a strong rebuke against Israel for a series of attacks that have injured United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign policy chief, described these incidents as "completely unacceptable" during a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg on Monday.
Borrell announced that all 27 EU member states have united in calling for Israel to cease its attacks on UNIFIL, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "It's completely unacceptable attacking United Nations troops."
The recent escalation has resulted in injuries to at least five peacekeepers. These attacks come as Israel targets Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. UNIFIL, a multinational peacekeeping force of approximately 9,500 troops established after Israel's 1978 invasion of Lebanon, has accused the Israeli military of "deliberately" targeting its positions.
Highlighting the EU's direct stake in the matter, Borrell noted, "Many European members are participating in this mission. Their work is very important."
The situation has drawn attention from the highest levels of international diplomacy. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appealed to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday, urging the relocation of peacekeepers from what he termed "harm's way." Netanyahu claimed that Hezbollah was using the UN forces as "human shields."
Despite these calls, UNIFIL has steadfastly refused to abandon its positions, underscoring the complex and tense situation in the region.
This development adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation in the Middle East, raising concerns about the safety of international peacekeepers and the potential for further escalation in the region.