UNIFIL condemns 'Israeli' airstrikes, attacks on peacekeepers in southern Lebanon

• UNIFIL reports 'Israeli' airstrikes in southern Lebanon, citing violations of UN Resolution 1701.
• Lebanese Armed Forces continue operations to control unauthorized weapons and infrastructure.
• Peacekeepers were targeted by gunfire near Bint Jbeil; no injuries reported.
• UNIFIL urges both 'Israel' and Lebanon to respect resolution commitments and ensure peacekeeper safety.

UN peacekeepers have reported a series of 'Israeli' airstrikes over the past week targeting villages in south Lebanon, raising concerns over violations of United Nations Security Council resolution 1701.

The airstrikes occurred in the villages of Marounah, Majadel, and Baraashit, according to a statement released by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

The Lebanese Armed Forces are simultaneously conducting operations aimed at controlling unauthorized weapons and infrastructure in the region. UNIFIL stressed that the recent airstrikes constitute clear breaches of resolution 1701 and called on the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) to make use of established liaison and coordination mechanisms to avoid escalating tensions.

UNIFIL also warned Lebanese actors against taking retaliatory measures that could worsen the situation.

- Attack on peacekeepers -

In a separate incident, UNIFIL peacekeepers on patrol near Bint Jbeil were approached by six men on three mopeds. One individual fired approximately three shots into the back of the vehicle, though no injuries were reported.

The UN force condemned the attack, stating that “attacks on peacekeepers are unacceptable and serious violations of resolution 1701.” UNIFIL reminded Lebanese authorities of their responsibility to ensure the safety and security of its personnel and called for a full investigation to identify and prosecute the perpetrators.

- UNIFIL monitoring and support -

UNIFIL reaffirmed its role in monitoring the situation in southern Lebanon and supporting both Lebanon and 'Israel' in implementing resolution 1701. The statement emphasized that both parties must adhere to their obligations under the resolution, as well as to agreements reached in November, to preserve the progress made toward stability in the region.