Israeli Forces Fire on UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon; No Injuries Reported

URGENT UPDATE: Tensions escalate as Israeli forces fired upon United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon today, forcing them to take cover during a routine patrol. The incident occurred near an Israeli position in the El Hamames area, where heavy machine-gun rounds landed just five meters from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) personnel. Fortunately, peacekeepers were able to vacate the area safely approximately 30 minutes later when the Israeli tank withdrew, and no injuries were reported.

The Irish Defence Forces confirmed that their troops were not involved in the incident. UNIFIL has condemned the attack, labeling it a serious violation of the truce established between Israel and Hezbollah in November 2022. The organization reiterated its demand for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to “cease any aggressive behaviour” towards peacekeepers, who are actively working to maintain stability in the volatile region.

In a statement, the IDF claimed its soldiers had identified “two suspects” and fired warning shots in their direction. They attributed the misidentification of UN personnel to poor weather conditions but affirmed that no deliberate fire was aimed at the peacekeepers. This latest incident raises serious concerns about the safety of UN personnel in the area, especially given the recent history of close calls.

Earlier this month, Irish UNIFIL troops narrowly avoided danger when a drone strike struck a van near Bint Jbeil, just a few hundred meters from their patrol vehicles. Though no Irish soldiers were injured, at least seven civilians suffered injuries in that attack, highlighting the perilous conditions in which peacekeepers operate.

A spokesperson for UNIFIL emphasized that attacks near peacekeepers and civilians not only jeopardize personnel but also undermine the mission’s critical work in fostering peace and security. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on both the IDF and UNIFIL to ensure the protection of those working to stabilize the region.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation as officials work to prevent further escalation.