Yater: The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that its peacekeepers were fired upon in three separate incidents while conducting patrols near their positions in Yater, Deir Kifa, and Qalawiya in southern Lebanon.
According to Jordan News Agency, a statement issued by UNIFIL on Sunday indicated that the attacks were likely perpetrated by non-state armed groups. The incident in Yater involved shots being fired at close range, from approximately five meters away from the peacekeepers. In the incidents near Deir Kifa and Qalawiya, the sources of gunfire were approximately 100 and 200 meters away, respectively.
UNIFIL noted that two of its patrols returned fire in self-defense, and following a brief exchange, resumed their planned activities. Thankfully, no peacekeepers sustained injuries during these incidents.
The mission reiterated that the presence of unauthorized weapons within its area of operations violates UN Security Council Resolution 1701. It also emphasized that targeting peacekeepers engaged in their mandated duties is unacceptable. UNIFIL reminded all parties of their international obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and to take necessary measures to prevent harm to civilians.