The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has reported additional incidents involving Israeli forces violating its positions in southern Lebanon. Early Sunday morning, UNIFIL stated that Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) tanks forcibly entered one of its positions, causing damage to the facility.
“At around 4:30 a.m., while peacekeepers were in shelters, two IDF Merkava tanks destroyed the position’s main gate and forcibly entered the position,” UNIFIL announced in a statement on social media. The peacekeeping force emphasized that such actions undermine the safety of UN personnel and escalate tensions in the region.
UNIFIL has been operating in Lebanon since 1978 with the mandate to monitor the cessation of hostilities and assist the Lebanese government in ensuring peace and security along the southern border. The recent incidents mark a significant escalation in violations, raising concerns over stability in the area.
The peacekeeping force called on all parties to exercise restraint and respect the integrity of UN positions. “We urge all involved to adhere to established agreements and prevent any actions that could lead to further escalation,” the statement added.
The Israeli military has not yet commented on the incident. Tensions between Israel and Lebanon have historically been high, and incidents along the border often contribute to regional instability.
International observers are watching the situation closely, as any significant deterioration could have broader implications for peace and security in the Middle East.
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UN peacekeepers in Lebanon say Israeli tanks destroyed their main gate
cgtn.com
