The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported on Saturday that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) were responsible for the destruction of both UN property and infrastructure belonging to the Lebanese Armed Forces in southern Lebanon. According to a social media post by UNIFIL, peacekeepers witnessed an IDF bulldozer demolishing a blue barrel that marked the boundary line between Lebanon and Israel in Labbouneh, along with an observation tower owned by the Lebanese military situated near a UNIFIL site. This act has been condemned as a blatant violation of resolution 1701 and international law.
In light of these events, UNIFIL has urged all parties involved to refrain from actions that could endanger the ceasefire and contribute to the destruction of civilian infrastructure. Additionally, Mirjana Spoljaric, the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), echoed the need for maintaining the ceasefire during her visit to Lebanon. She cautioned that civilians cannot withstand a return to violent conflict, which would escalate death and destruction in the region. Spoljaric emphasized that the continuation of the ceasefire is crucial for families attempting to return home and for the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need, stating that the ongoing humanitarian crisis could have been significantly reduced if all parties had adhered to established rules of warfare.
A ceasefire agreement, facilitated by the United States and France, was enacted on November 27, 2024, in an effort to end almost 14 months of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The stipulations of this agreement require Israel to withdraw its forces from Lebanese territory within a 60-day timeframe, allowing the Lebanese army to take charge of security along the Lebanese-Israeli border. However, despite the ceasefire, the Israeli military has continued to conduct strikes in Lebanon, albeit at a lower frequency, resulting in some casualties.
5 Comments
Jordan
The destruction of UN and Lebanese military property is a clear violation of international law. The IDF must be held accountable!
Answer
Mirjana Spoljaric’s statements seem one-sided. Where is the condemnation of Hezbollah's actions?
Jordan
It’s heartbreaking to see ongoing violence. The ceasefire needs to be respected by all parties to ensure civilian safety.
The Truth
Civilians deserve peace and security. The continued hostilities are unacceptable and must be urgently addressed.
Marishka
This is just another attempt by the UN to blame Israel for everything. They need to be fair and look at the full picture.