UN Peacekeeper Injured in Second Israeli Attack in Southern Lebanon

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon reported an Israeli military attack on its peacekeeping personnel in southern Lebanon that resulted in injuries to a staff member. According to UNIFIL, an Israeli drone dropped a grenade that exploded near one of the mission's positions in the Kafer Kela area on Saturday, lightly injuring one peacekeeper.

UN observers spotted two Israeli drones operating near the UN position shortly before the explosion occurred. The mission characterized this as the second Israeli Defense Forces grenade attack targeting peacekeepers this month, describing it as a serious violation of international agreements. "This represents another serious violation of resolution 1701 and concerning disregard for the safety of peacekeepers implementing their mandate from the Security Council," the UN mission stated in its official communication.

UNIFIL has maintained a presence in southern Lebanon since 1978, with its mandate significantly expanded under UN Security Council Resolution 1701 following the 2006 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The current incident occurs against the backdrop of cross-border hostilities that began in October 2023 and escalated into full-scale warfare by September 2024, resulting in thousands of casualties despite a ceasefire agreement reached in November.

The UN mission renewed its call for the Israeli military to immediately cease attacks on or near UN peacekeeping personnel who are working to maintain stability along the Lebanon-Israel border. Despite obligations under international agreements, Israel continues to maintain a military presence at five border outposts in southern Lebanon and has conducted near-daily operations in the region, citing the need to target Hezbollah activities.