UN says Israeli tank rammed its vehicles in south Lebanon

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) announced on Sunday that an Israeli Merkava tank rammed its vehicles in southern Lebanon on two separate occasions, causing heavy damage and restricting peacekeeper movement. The incidents occurred in the Bayada area, where Israeli soldiers had blocked a road used to access UNIFIL positions.

Warning shots and camera destruction

UNIFIL stated that Israeli forces fired “warning shots” over the past week, some striking clearly marked UN vehicles. In one instance, a shot landed approximately one meter from a peacekeeper who had exited his vehicle. The mission also reported that Israeli troops have repeatedly blocked peacekeepers’ access along the same road and restricted movement in other areas. Additionally, Israeli forces destroyed surveillance cameras at UNIFIL’s headquarters in Naqoura and at five other positions along the Blue Line since early April.

Violations of international obligations

“These actions are inconsistent with Israel’s obligations under Security Council resolution 1701 and the requirement to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers, as well as their freedom of movement at all times,” UNIFIL said. The mission warned that such incidents “hinder peacekeepers’ ability to report violations by both sides on the ground.” Peacekeepers will remain in position and continue reporting to the Security Council. The incidents come as Israel presses its offensive in Lebanon, with Prime Minister Netanyahu vowing escalation unless Hezbollah is disarmed. Lebanon and Israel have agreed to meet in Washington on April 14.