EU Condemns Israeli Attacks on UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon

The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, has voiced strong condemnation of recent Israeli attacks that have resulted in injuries to United Nations peacekeepers stationed in southern Lebanon. Speaking ahead of a meeting of the EU’s foreign ministers in Luxembourg, Borrell described the assaults as “completely unacceptable,” emphasizing the need for the 27 member states to demand an end to the violence against UN personnel.

In the last few days, at least five peacekeepers have sustained injuries due to Israeli military operations targeting Hezbollah in the region. The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which consists of approximately 9,500 troops from various countries, has accused the Israeli military of intentionally firing upon its positions. The peacekeeping force was established after Israel’s invasion of Lebanon in 1978 to help maintain peace and security in the region.

Borrell highlighted that many European nations contribute personnel to UNIFIL and underscored the importance of their work. He reiterated the EU’s collective stance, stating, “The 27 members agreed on asking the Israelis to stop attacking UNIFIL.”

In response to the ongoing conflict and the risks posed to peacekeepers, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to relocate peacekeepers in southern Lebanon to safer areas. Netanyahu accused Hezbollah of using these peacekeepers as “human shields,” further complicating the security situation. However, UNIFIL has maintained its position, refusing to abandon its posts despite the dangers.

The escalating tensions highlight the fragility of the situation in southern Lebanon and the challenges faced by international peacekeeping forces in conflict zones. As the EU continues to advocate for the safety of its peacekeepers, the broader implications of the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah remain a pressing concern for regional stability.