UN Security Council condemns Israeli attacks on UNIFIL in Lebanon

The UN Security Council on Wednesday condemned Israeli strikes on the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in late March which led to the deaths of three Indonesian peacekeepers.

"The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, as well as to Indonesia," the council said in a statement.

It pointed out that five others were injured in the attacks and emphasized a series of incidents affecting UNIFIL positions, with peacekeepers harmed "against the backdrop of ongoing hostilities along the Blue Line."

"They wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured. They paid tribute to the dedication and service of all United Nations peacekeepers who risk their lives in the cause of international peace and security and expressed their deep appreciation to UNIFIL's troop-contributing countries," the statement added.

The council reaffirmed its full support for UNIFIL and called on all parties to guarantee the safety and security of its personnel, facilities, and freedom of movement in accordance with international law, including refraining from actions that could put peacekeepers at risk.

It further stressed that peacekeepers must never be targeted and urged the UN to investigate the incidents through UNIFIL while keeping the contributing country informed, in line with relevant Security Council resolutions.

The statement also called for the full implementation of Resolution 1701 and reiterated strong support for Lebanon's sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and unity.