Beirut, Lebanon – UN Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the recent explosion near the Lebanese border that injured three UN military observers and a Lebanese interpreter. The incident occurred amid escalating clashes between the Israeli military and Hezbollah militants in southern Lebanon. The clashes have intensified in the wake of the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
The wounded personnel, part of the UN Truce Supervision Organization (Untso), were on a patrol along the Blue Line when the explosion occurred. They were evacuated for medical treatment, with one Norwegian observer reported to have sustained minor injuries. The circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear, with conflicting reports about the source of the explosion.
Unifil spokesperson Andrea Tenenti stated that the observers’ vehicle was clearly marked with UN insignia, and the peacekeepers were unarmed at the time of the incident. Despite the ongoing exchange of fire in the area, Unifil is conducting an investigation into the origin of the explosion. Safety and security of UN personnel are a top priority, with calls for all parties involved to cease hostilities to prevent further harm.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric expressed grave concern over the daily exchanges of fire between armed groups in Lebanon and Israeli forces. The volatile situation not only threatens the security and stability of Lebanon and Israel but also poses a risk to the region as a whole. Guterres has urged all parties to uphold the 2006 cessation of hostilities and seek a diplomatic solution to the crisis.
Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati also denounced the incident, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region. Unifil was initially established to oversee Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 1978 and expanded its mission after the 2006 war with Hezbollah to help the Lebanese military assert control in the region.
As investigations into the explosion continue, the international community remains vigilant about the escalating tensions in the area. The need for dialogue and de-escalation is paramount to prevent further violence and protect the lives of civilians and peacekeepers in the region.