- Ongoing attacks on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) amidst fighting between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Hezbollah have drawn widespread condemnation.
- A joint statement from 34 countries contributing troops to UNIFIL called for respect for the mission and the safety of its personnel.
- India, though not part of the statement, fully aligned with its message and emphasized the importance of safeguarding peacekeepers.
- IDF Attack on UN Facility: IDF tanks destroyed the main gate of a UNIFIL facility in Ramyah, southern Lebanon.
- Calls for UNIFIL Evacuation: Israel urged the immediate withdrawal of UNIFIL from areas near Hezbollah strongholds.
- UNIFIL peacekeepers observed IDF soldiers crossing the Blue Line into Lebanon before the attack.
- UNIFIL reported no immediate danger to its personnel during the IDF actions.
- UNIFIL’s Presence and India’s Role: UNIFIL, operating under the UN Security Council, comprises over 10,000 peacekeepers from 50 countries.
- India, the third-largest contributor to UNIFIL with 903 soldiers, expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation along the Blue Line and reiterated the importance of respecting UN premises.
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