Lebanon announces 25 arrests following attack on UNIFIL forces

Lebanese Interior and Municipalities Minister Major General Ahmad Al-Hajjar announced that over 25 individuals have been arrested in connection with the attack on United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) personnel that occurred on Friday.

The suspects are currently being investigated.

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In a statement, Al-Hajjar explained that the army’s intelligence unit, under the supervision of the Public Prosecutor, has detained more than 25 individuals, with an additional suspect held by the Internal Security Forces’ Information Branch.

However, the Minister clarified that the arrests do not necessarily mean the detainees were directly involved in the assault on UNIFIL.

The ongoing investigation will determine who is responsible for the attack, as well as any related crimes. Al-Hajjar emphasized that authorities are pursuing the investigation with utmost seriousness.

The Interior Minister also confirmed that Friday’s disturbances included road blockages, damage to both public and private property, and the assault on UNIFIL forces, which he condemned as a criminal act.

He stressed that such actions are punishable under Lebanese law and assured the public that security agencies, in coordination with the Public Prosecutor’s office, are closely following up on the investigation and pursuing those responsible for the attack.

Additionally, Al-Hajjar noted that the Central Security Council convened to discuss the recent events, acknowledging that the disturbances had surpassed the boundaries of what is legally permissible.

UNIFIL convoy attacked near Beirut Airport

On Friday evening, UNIFIL reported that a convoy of its personnel was attacked while on its way to Beirut International Airport. The attack resulted in one of the vehicles being set on fire, and the Deputy Commander of the mission, who was returning home after completing his duties, was injured.

In response, UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attack, stating that such incidents could be considered war crimes and called for those responsible to be held accountable.

Earlier, protests erupted near Beirut International Airport, with demonstrators opposing the blocking of an Iranian aircraft from landing in Beirut. In response, the Lebanese Army deployed additional troops to disperse the crowds and reopen the roads.