Israeli forces once again breached the Blue Line and entered the main base of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in southern Lebanon early this morning. According to a statement released by UN peacekeepers, two Israeli Merkava tanks destroyed the main gate and forcibly entered the base while peacekeepers were asleep.
The incursion lasted for about 45 minutes, until UNIFIL protested and the tanks withdrew. However, at 6:40am, peacekeepers reported hearing several rounds being fired just 100 meters north of their position, possibly containing a chemical agent. Despite putting on protective masks, 15 peacekeepers experienced symptoms such as skin irritation and gastrointestinal reactions.
UNIFIL condemned the breach, stating that the Israeli army must ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property at the Lebanon border. The incident was described as a flagrant violation of international law and Security Council resolution 1701.
Al Jazeera is closely following the developments of this incident, with reporters providing updates from various locations. Dorsa Jabbari reports from Beirut, while Nour Odeh covers the Israeli army’s stance from Amman. Human Rights Lawyer and former UN Peacekeeper with UNIFIL in Lebanon, Ray Murphy, joined Al Jazeera from Galway in Ireland to provide insight into the situation.
Tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border have escalated in recent days, with clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces. The incident at the UNIFIL base adds to the ongoing conflict and raises concerns about the safety of peacekeepers in the region.
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Video “UNIFIL: Israeli forces crossed the Blue Line, ‘destroyed’ main base gate” was uploaded on 10/13/2024 to Youtube Channel Al Jazeera English