The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has voiced significant concern regarding the positioning of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) near a peacekeeping outpost operated by Irish troops in southern Lebanon.
Mission described the situation as a “hazardous development.”
For several days, over 30 Irish peacekeepers have been unable to leave the UN outpost at the Lebanese border amid escalating clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces.
In a statement released this evening, UNIFIL highlighted its worries about the IDF’s activities near the outpost designated UNP-652, located southeast of Marun ar Ras within Lebanese territory.
“UNIFIL is deeply concerned by recent activities by the IDF immediately adjacent to the Mission’s position 6-52,” the statement read.
“This is a hazardous development. It is unacceptable to compromise the safety of UN peacekeepers carrying out their Security Council-mandated tasks.”
The UN mission urged all parties to adhere to their obligations to protect UN personnel and property.
Andrea Tenenti, a spokesperson for UNIFIL, informed the Irish Independent that the IDF had previously communicated its intent to conduct limited ground incursions into Lebanon on September 30, requesting the relocation of some UN positions.
Despite this, peacekeepers remain stationed in all locations, with the UN flag continuing to fly.
Tenenti emphasized, “We are regularly adjusting our posture and activities, and we have contingency plans ready to activate if absolutely necessary.
Peacekeeper safety and security is paramount, and all actors are reminded of their obligation to ensure it.”
He called on Lebanon and Israel to reaffirm their commitment to Security Council Resolution 1701, urging actions to restore regional stability.
The situation has escalated as reports emerged of nearly 20 pieces of Israeli military equipment being stationed close to the Irish UN post.
RTÉ acquired images depicting the military presence near the base, although the Defence Forces requested that the pictures not be published. A photo taken on Saturday afternoon reportedly shows Israeli tanks and military equipment arranged in rows.
An official from the UN in New York highlighted the dangers posed by the current situation, noting, “It’s dangerous because firing tends to draw return fire, and our peacekeepers are in bunkers, which can lead to serious consequences.”
The spokesperson for the Defence Forces reiterated awareness of misinformation circulating about the situation, urging reliance on official channels for accurate information.
“Defence Forces personnel are all accounted for and well. They remain vigilant and in regular contact to update UNIFIL and Defence Forces HQs on the ongoing situation,” the spokesperson stated. They confirmed that soldiers take shelter when necessary but constantly monitor the situation.
The ongoing engagements have severely restricted movement in the area, with road access limited due to the military actions. The Defence Forces expressed their commitment to fulfilling their mission under challenging conditions and updated families on the situation, thanking them for their support during this difficult time.
As the positioning of Israeli troops near the Irish UN base continues to raise alarms within United Nations Headquarters, intense fighting between the Israeli military and Hezbollah persists. The UN contacted Israel via diplomatic channels on Friday, urging an end to the firing in the area.
