UNIFIL patrol in southern Lebanon. UN Secretary-General strongly condemns the killing of a French peacekeeper in southern Lebanon Peace and Security
One French peacekeeper was killed and three other members of the mission were injured as a result of shelling that hit a patrol of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The UN reminds that an attack on the “blue helmets” can be classified as a war crime.
The incident occurred on Saturday morning as peacekeepers were clearing mines on the road to restore communications with isolated UN positions.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the attack. A statement released by his press service notes that Hezbollah militants are believed to be responsible for the incident.
“This is the third incident in recent weeks that has resulted in the death of UNIFIL peacekeepers, and it occurred despite a ten-day cessation of hostilities announced on April 16. All parties must respect the ceasefire and stop hostilities,” the statement said. “The Secretary-General once again calls on all parties to fulfill their obligations under international law and ensure the safety of UN personnel and the integrity of the Organization’s property.” Guterres said attacks on peacekeepers could amount to war crimes and must stop.
The injured peacekeepers were taken to medical facilities. The UN chief expressed his condolences to the family and colleagues of the fallen peacekeeper and wished a speedy and full recovery to the wounded.
He also expressed his “deepest gratitude to all the women and men serving in the AFPC.” António Guterres recalled the importance of ensuring their safety and freedom of movement.
The UN Interim Force in Lebanon was created by the Security Council in 1978 to oversee the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the south of the country and has since played an important role in ensuring security in this area.
The Blue Helmets are also authorized to implement Resolution 1701, which ended fighting between Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants in 2006.