Protesters injure UN peacekeeping commander in Lebanon

In Lebanon, the outgoing deputy commander of the United Nations peacekeeping force, Maj. Gen. Chok Bahadur Dhakal from Nepal, suffered injuries during a protest on February 14, 2025. The incident occurred as a UNIFIL convoy was en route to the Beirut airport when protesters blocked the road to voice their discontent over the Lebanese authorities' decision to cancel a flight from Iran. This decision left many Lebanese passengers stranded, intensifying frustrations regarding security and political conditions in the country. The protest was sparked by allegations from the Israeli army that Iran was using civilian flights to channel money to Hezbollah, which heightened tensions among the Lebanese population regarding perceived interference from Israel. The demonstrators, dissatisfied with the government's actions in the face of external pressure, responded with hostility, leading to the violent confrontation. In response to the attack, the Lebanese army intervened and later stated that they would pursue those responsible, promising to bring them to justice. This commitment reflects the ongoing struggle within Lebanon to maintain security amid protests and civil unrest that have periodically erupted in the past few years over various political and economic issues. The incident underscores the fragile situation in Lebanon, especially regarding the UN's long-term presence in the region to maintain peace following the tumultuous history between Israel and Hezbollah. The UNIFIL mission, created after Israel's 1978 invasion, has faced accusations from both Hezbollah supporters and Israeli officials, contributing to the complexity of their position in the region. As the Lebanese military works to assert control over the southern region, there are continued calls for increased support and a re-evaluation of the presence of foreign forces in Lebanon.