US Urges Israel to Halt Fire on UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon
In a rebuke of Israeli military actions, the United States has urged the Israeli government to immediately cease its shelling of United Nations peacekeepers in Lebanon. The dire situation has escalated in recent weeks, leaving UNSMIL, the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, at risk of significant harm or even casualties.
The flare-up in violence follows a series of border clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, a Lebanese political and military organization. The conflict has resulted in sporadic rocket exchanges and mortar fire, causing widespread destruction and displacing thousands of civilians.
According to UN officials, at least 14 incidents have been reported in which the Israeli Defense Forces have targeted UN positions, including observation towers and patrol routes. The UN has condemned these actions, describing them as "unacceptable" and a clear violation of international humanitarian law.
The US State Department issued a strong statement on Thursday, reiterating its long-standing support for UN peacekeeping efforts and urging Israel to respect the safety and security of UN personnel in Lebanon. "The United States is gravely concerned by the recent escalation of violence and the direct targeting of UN peacekeepers in Lebanon," said a State Department spokesperson. "We urge Israel to immediately cease its shelling of UN positions and to allow UN personnel to carry out their critical work without interference or harm."
The US government believes that the UN plays a crucial role in maintaining stability in the region and that any attempts to undermine its efforts will only exacerbate the already complex and volatile situation. The administration has consistently emphasized the importance of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and has pushed for greater international cooperation to address regional challenges.
The international community has also joined the US in condemning Israel’s actions. The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, stated, "It is imperative that all parties, including the Government of Israel, take immediate and concrete steps to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel in Lebanon." The European Union, the Arab League, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation have all issued similar statements, calling for an end to the violence and the protection of UN personnel.
The US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, echoed these sentiments, saying, "The safety and security of UN personnel is non-negotiable. We expect Israel to take immediate action to ensure the protection of UN peacekeepers and to prevent further escalation of this crisis."
As the situation remains fluid and increasingly precarious, the international community remains united in its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a commitment to the safety and security of UN personnel in Lebanon. The US, in particular, is urging Israel to respect the UN’s critical role in maintaining peace and stability in the region and to take decisive action to put an end to the violence.