EU condemned Israel's attacks on UN peacekeeping forces in Lebanon
High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell (photo: Getty Images)
High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, condemned the IDF's attacks on UN forces in Lebanon, labeling them as unacceptable and a serious violation of international law, according to a statement published on the European Council's website.
"The EU condemns all attacks against UN missions. It expresses particularly grave concern regarding the attacks by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) against the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which left several peacekeepers wounded. Such attacks against UN peacekeepers constitute a grave violation of international law and are totally unacceptable. These attacks must stop immediately," the document states.
Borrell's statement, made on behalf of all EU member states, emphasized that all parties are obligated to take necessary measures to ensure the safety and property of the UN, as well as to respect the inviolability of UN premises at all times. The EU's chief diplomat underscored that Israel is expected to provide explanations.
"We urgently await explanations and a thorough investigation from the Israeli authorities about the attacks against UNIFIL, which plays a fundamental role in the stability of South Lebanon. We urge all parties to fully uphold their obligations to guarantee the safety and security of UNIFIL personnel at all times, and to allow UNIFIL to continue to implement its mandate," the statement said.
Borrell emphasized that UNIFIL comprises military and personnel from 16 EU member states. Additionally, the EU's chief diplomat expressed respect for their professionalism and reaffirmed unwavering support for the role of UNIFIL.
The document also stated that the EU is deeply concerned about rocket attacks on Israel by Hezbollah, as well as IDF strikes on densely populated areas in Lebanon, which result in significant civilian casualties and force many to flee their homes.
"We urge all parties to respect International Humanitarian Law, in all circumstances. The EU reiterates its call for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon, and for all parties to commit and work towards the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701," Borrell concluded.
Yesterday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged the UN to withdraw peacekeepers from southern Lebanon. In his address, he stated that Hezbollah is using peacekeeping forces as a human shield.
