Israel-UNIFIL Conflict: Netanyahu Denies Targeting Peacekeepers

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied accusations that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) targeted UNIFIL peacekeepers.
Netanyahu claimed the IDF repeatedly asked UNIFIL to move out of conflict zones to avoid harm.
He also alleged that Hezbollah uses UNIFIL facilities as cover for attacks on Israel.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed accusations that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) deliberately targeted members of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). This statement came after some UNIFIL members were injured during recent clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces. Netanyahu called the claims “completely false” and reiterated his appeal for UNIFIL personnel to move out of harm’s way amid the ongoing conflict.

He stated that the IDF repeatedly urged UNIFIL to evacuate combat zones, especially as Israel has launched military strikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. Netanyahu also claimed that Hezbollah uses UNIFIL bases and positions as cover for its attacks on Israeli cities, further complicating the situation.

Hezbollah has been targeting Israel since its unprovoked attack on October 8, 2023, launching thousands of rockets. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel is solely fighting Hezbollah, which operates from Lebanese territory, and not UNIFIL or the people of Lebanon.

In a message to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Netanyahu expressed concern that UNIFIL personnel could become “hostages” of Hezbollah, posing a danger to both peacekeepers and Israeli soldiers. In response, UNIFIL’s spokesperson Andrea Tenenti stated that their mission would continue, as it is vital to maintain the UN’s presence in the region and report on the situation.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned Netanyahu’s demand for the removal of UNIFIL forces, calling it a violation of international norms.