The Israeli army has wounded UNIFIL peacekeepers and destroyed the operation’s stations in southern Lebanon. Criticism is pouring in from Spain, Britain and the United States as well.
Veikko Eromäki,
Markus Heikkilä
20:25•Updated 20:29
The incidents of the Israeli armed forces with the UN peacekeeping force UNIFIL in Lebanon arouse severe criticism from the Western allies.
The Prime Minister representing the Socialist Party of Spain went the furthest Pedro Sánchezwho commented on the actions of Israeli soldiers on Friday.
– In my opinion, in light of everything that is happening in the Middle East, the international community must stop arms exports to the Israeli government. I believe that the matter is urgent and I demand this now for the first time from the entire international community, let’s stop arms exports Netanyahu to the government, Sanchez said.
According to Sanchez, the Israelis have acted “in a completely reprehensible, hostile manner” during Thursday and Friday.
On Thursday, fire from an Israeli assault vehicle brought down the observation tower at Unifil’s headquarters in Naqoura, on Friday, a bulldozer of the Israeli Armed Forces broke the walls of Unifil’s positions in Labbouneh. On both days, two Unifil peacekeepers were injured. There are no Finnish peacekeepers among the injured.
According to Sanchez, the “cycle of violence” in the Middle East must be broken once and for all, and that the fate of Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank must be resolved through diplomatic means.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s spokesman told the prime minister of being “appalled” by Israel’s actions and demanding the protection of civilians and peacekeepers.
– As you know, we still demand an immediate ceasefire and an end to the suffering and bloodshed. This is a good reminder for us that our diplomatic efforts must continue, the spokesperson told reporters.
France accuses Israel of violating international law
According to the Reuters news agency, France has summoned the Israeli ambassador to hear about the shooting of the observation tower. According to the French Foreign Ministry, Israel’s shots at UN positions violate international law. France condemns Israel’s action against UN peacekeeping forces and demands that Israel stop it immediately.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says message service in X that he called on Israel to ensure the safety of UNIFIL forces in Lebanon.
Source: Reuters