A peacekeeper was killed and three others were injured, two seriously, in an attack on Saturday morning local time while they were clearing explosive ordnance in the village of Ghanduriyah to reconnect with isolated UN positions. The patrol was fired upon by non-state actors.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the attack, stating that it was believed to be the work of Hezbollah militants. This incident marks the third in recent weeks resulting in peacekeepers' deaths within UNIFIL, despite a 10-day cessation of hostilities announced on April 16. Guterres called on all parties to respect the ceasefire and international law, emphasizing the need to protect UN personnel and assets.
The wounded peacekeepers were promptly evacuated for medical treatment. UNIFIL expressed condolences for the fallen peacekeeper and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
UNIFIL labeled the attack a deliberate act against peacekeepers fulfilling their duties, stressing the importance of their explosive ordnance disposal work following recent conflicts. An investigation into the incident is underway, with early assessments pointing to the attack being carried out by non-state actors, potentially Hezbollah.
The mission reiterated the obligation of all parties to safeguard the safety of UN personnel and assets, emphasizing that attacks on peacekeepers are severe violations of international law and may constitute war crimes. UNIFIL urged the Lebanese government to promptly investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
