UNIFIL Says Gunfire Struck Its Position in Southern Lebanon

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) said gunfire struck one of its positions in southern Lebanon, prompting the peacekeeping mission to launch an investigation into the incident.

In a statement, UNIFIL said it was examining the circumstances surrounding the shooting and had not yet determined who was responsible. The mission did not report any casualties among its personnel in connection with the incident.

UNIFIL, which has operated along Lebanon's southern border since 1978, warned that any deliberate attack on its personnel or positions could amount to a war crime under international law. The mission reiterated that peacekeepers are protected under international humanitarian law and that attacks on them are subject to accountability.

Repeated security incidents

The incident adds to a series of reported security episodes affecting UN peacekeepers in the area, a region that has seen repeated tension in recent years. UNIFIL has previously called on all parties operating near its positions to respect the safety of its personnel and to avoid actions that could endanger peacekeeping operations.

The mission said it would provide further details as its investigation into the gunfire progresses, and called on relevant authorities to cooperate with the inquiry.

Background

UNIFIL was established by the UN Security Council to confirm the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, restore international peace and security, and assist the Lebanese government in restoring its authority in the area. The force includes troops from dozens of contributing countries and has faced periodic security incidents while carrying out its mandate.