The Secretary-General of the United Nations has expressed deep sorrow over the death of a second French peacekeeper serving with UNIFIL, who succumbed to injuries sustained in an ആക്രമ attack on April 18 in southern Lebanon.
According to a statement from the Secretary-General’s spokesperson, the peacekeepers were attacked by non-state actors believed to be linked to Hezbollah while investigating reports of improvised explosive devices in the mission’s area of operations. The incident left one peacekeeper dead at the scene and three others injured.
The UN chief extended his condolences to the family, colleagues, and the government and people of France, while wishing a swift recovery to those wounded. He noted that the attack is part of a troubling pattern of recent incidents targeting UNIFIL personnel.
Reiterating the organization’s position, the Secretary-General stressed that attacks on peacekeeping missions must cease immediately, warning that such actions constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and “may amount to war crimes.”
He called on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law, ensuring the safety and security of UN personnel, as well as the inviolability of UN premises and assets.
The Secretary-General also urged that all such incidents be promptly investigated and that those responsible be held accountable, welcoming the stated commitment of Lebanese authorities to investigate the April 18 attack.
He further called on all sides to respect the cessation of hostilities announced on April 16, reaffirming the UN’s commitment to supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at extending the ceasefire and fully implementing Resolution 1701.
In conclusion, he expressed deep appreciation for the service of UNIFIL peacekeepers, emphasizing the importance of their safety and freedom of movement in carrying out their mandate.
