Quick Read
- Three UN peacekeepers were killed in southern Lebanon in less than 24 hours.
- The UN Security Council has convened an emergency session at France’s request.
- Indonesia, whose soldiers were among the casualties, is demanding a thorough investigation.
NEW YORK (Azat TV) – The United Nations Security Council convened for an emergency session on Tuesday following the deaths of three peacekeepers from the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in less than 24 hours. The incidents, which occurred on Sunday and Monday, have prompted a swift international response and a call for a thorough investigation into who is responsible.
UNIFIL Peacekeepers Targeted in Southern Lebanon
UNIFIL reported that two of its personnel died on Monday due to an explosion, and a third peacekeeper was killed on Sunday by shellfire directed at their positions. The United Nations has launched an investigation into these events, and the perpetrators have not yet been identified. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, confirmed on Monday that all three deceased peacekeepers were members of the Indonesian army. These fatalities bring the total number of UNIFIL peacekeepers killed by malicious acts since the mission’s inception in March 1978 to 97. The overall number of UNIFIL personnel who have died in the line of duty exceeds 330, marking it as the highest casualty rate among UN peacekeeping missions.
Indonesia Demands Swift Investigation
Indonesia’s Foreign Minister, Retno Marsudi, condemned the attacks as “monstrous” and stated on Tuesday that she had spoken with UN Secretary-General António Guterres. She requested an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council and an “expeditious, thorough, and transparent investigation.” The Indonesian Ministry of Defense issued a written statement indicating that two additional soldiers sustained serious injuries amid heightened hostilities in the region. “The safety and security of UN peacekeepers are non-negotiable and must be ensured at all times,” Marsudi asserted.
Security Council Urged to Act
France requested the emergency session of the Security Council, underscoring the gravity of the situation in southern Lebanon. The ongoing conflict in the region has raised concerns about the safety of international personnel and the potential for wider escalation. The UN has consistently emphasized the need to protect peacekeepers and ensure accountability for attacks against them. The investigation aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding the deaths and to hold those responsible to account, potentially impacting regional stability and UN peacekeeping operations worldwide.
The deaths of these UNIFIL peacekeepers, particularly from Indonesia, highlight the increasing risks faced by international forces operating in volatile conflict zones and underscore the imperative for robust diplomatic and investigative responses to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies.