On October 13, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the recent attacks in southern Lebanon that resulted in injuries to several UN peacekeepers. During a recent statement, Guterres suggested that the Israeli military’s actions against the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) could potentially amount to war crimes.

Guterres emphasized that “the personnel and premises of UNIFIL should never be targets.” He noted that attacks on peacekeepers violate international law and humanitarian law and may constitute war crimes.

He expressed deep concern regarding an incident where Israeli Defense Forces’ armored vehicles reportedly forcefully breached the entrance to a UN compound in Lebanon. UNIFIL is currently assessing the situation and reviewing all factors as the mission takes necessary measures to ensure the safety of its personnel.

Furthermore, Guterres urged all parties, including the Israeli Defense Forces, to refrain from any actions that could endanger peacekeepers. He called for an immediate halt to hostilities and full compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

UNIFIL was established under Security Council Resolution 425, adopted in 1978. After the 2006 conflict between Lebanon and Israel, the Security Council expanded UNIFIL’s mandate and troop strength to enhance security in southern Lebanon. Currently, UNIFIL comprises over 10,000 personnel from various countries, including Italy, Ireland, France, Spain, the UK, Poland, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.

Recent reports noted that on October 13, Israeli tanks damaged the entrance to the UNIFIL base in Ramiah and entered the compound, leaving about 45 minutes later. The ongoing escalation of hostilities between Lebanon and Israel has already resulted in injuries to five peacekeepers. On October 12, a coalition of 40 countries that contribute troops to UNIFIL issued a joint statement, strongly condemning the attacks on peacekeeping personnel.