EU Nations Condemn Israeli Attacks on UNIFIL Troops in Lebanon: Violations of Humanitarian Law

In a strong collective statement, Italy, Spain, and France condemned Israel for what they described as serious violations of humanitarian international law concerning the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The leaders of these nations expressed their outrage, calling for an immediate end to such attacks.

Condemnation from European Leaders

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, and French President Emmanuel Macron voiced their concerns, with Macron labeling Israel's actions as "deliberate targeting" of UNIFIL soldiers. He stated, "We condemn it, we do not tolerate it and we do not tolerate it happening again."

US and UK Response

US President Joe Biden urged Israel not to strike UNIFIL forces, while the UK government expressed being "appalled" by reports of Israel's deliberate fire on peacekeepers.

Yesterday evening, two unmanned aerial vehicles were launched into the center area. One was intercepted and the other exploded in the Herzliya area. Last night on Yom Kippur there were alarms in the country's center, apparently in the Sharon area and Gush Dan. No casualties are known.

Incidents on the Ground

UNIFIL reported that an Israeli tank fired on its headquarters in Naqoura, southern Lebanon, injuring two peacekeepers. Further explosions were reported, leading to additional injuries. The Israeli military acknowledged that two peacekeepers were hurt while engaging with Hezbollah fighters.

International Reactions

In response to these incidents, Italy's defense ministry summoned Israel's ambassador for an explanation. Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris also expressed deep concern over the situation involving Irish troops serving with UNIFIL. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attacks, emphasizing their violation of international humanitarian law.

Ongoing Conflict and Casualties

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated significantly, resulting in extensive casualties. In a recent Israeli strike in Beirut, 22 people were reported killed and 139 injured. Lebanon's military reported that two of its soldiers were also killed in the ongoing hostilities.

According to the Lebanese government, over 1.2 million people have been displaced, with more than 2,100 reported dead and over 10,000 injured due to the fighting. Meanwhile, Israeli military actions in Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 61 Palestinians, with significant casualties reported in the Jabalia refugee camp.