The illegal entry of Israeli army tanks into the United Nations Peacekeeping Force (UNIFIL) stationed in southern Lebanon early on October 13 is causing outrage in the international community.
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| UNIFIL's military base in southern Lebanon, which was invaded by Israeli tanks early on October 13. (Source: AP) |
The incident prompted UNIFIL to call Israel's "shocking violations" against its forces, while UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that any attack on peacekeepers "could constitute a war crime".
Responding to the incident, the United States, an ally of Israel, highlighted the importance of taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of UN peacekeepers in Lebanon and the Lebanese armed forces.
Reuters news agency quoted the US Department of Defense as saying that the request was made by the department's leader Lloyd Austin during a phone call with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant on October 13.
According to Pentagon spokesman Major General Patrick Ryder, during the call, Mr. Austin also highlighted the need to transition from military operations in Lebanon to diplomacy to ensure the security of civilians as soon as possible as well as urgently take steps to address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Meanwhile, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of the European Union (EU) Josep Borrell also issued a statement condemning all attacks on UN missions.
"Such attacks on UN peacekeepers constitute serious violations of international law and are completely unacceptable. These attacks must end immediately," the statement said, according to Reuters .
According to him, all parties to the conflict have an obligation to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and assets.
Mr. Borrell also noted that the EU is waiting for an explanation and a comprehensive investigation from the Israeli authorities about the attacks on UNIFIL, a force that plays a fundamental role in maintaining stability in southern Lebanon.
For its part, Israel has objected to several UN reports on UNIFIL-related incidents, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claiming that UNIFIL was providing a “human shield” to Hezbollah fighters during the outbreak of hostilities.
However, on October 13, AFP news agency reported that in a conversation with his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, Mr. Netanyahu expressed regret for "any harm caused to UNIFIL personnel" in Lebanon and emphasized that "he will make every effort to prevent UNIFIL casualties."
Source: https://baoquocte.vn/tinh-hinh-lebanon-my-canh-tinh-israel-sau-vi-pham-gay-soc-khien-lhq-nong-mat-eu-noi-khong-the-chap-nhan-290062.html
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