Israel targets UN peacekeepers in Lebanon, damaging watchtower
- UN peacekeepers reported deliberate damage by Israeli forces to their installations in southern Lebanon.
- Israeli tanks have fired upon UNIFIL sites amidst claims of Hezbollah attacks nearby.
- The situation reflects escalating tensions, with international condemnation of Israel's actions and the UN's commitment to maintaining peace.
In Lebanon, the UN Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that the Israeli army deliberately damaged their observation tower and perimeter fence in southern Lebanon. This incident is part of a series of confrontational actions between Israeli forces and UN peacekeepers, as Israel has accused Hezbollah of launching attacks near UN positions. Following claims from the UN, Israeli tanks have reportedly fired upon watchtowers, and there have been previous instances of Israeli forces entering UNIFIL locations. Amid these tensions, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attacks as violations of international law, potentially constituting war crimes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed a desire to see UN peacekeepers removed from combat zones, asserting that their presence provides cover for Hezbollah, a claim that Hezbollah has denied. UNIFIL, however, maintains its position in the region, emphasizing the importance of its role in stabilizing the border area.