UNIFIL accuses Israel of deliberate attacks on positions
UNIFIL has accused the Israeli army of deliberately attacking its positions and of recently destroying part of a fence and a concrete structure in a UNIFIL position in Ras Naqoura.
"Yesterday, two IDF excavators and one IDF bulldozer destroyed part of a fence and a concrete structure in a UNIFIL position in Ras Naqoura. In response to our urgent protest, the IDF denied any activity was taking place inside the UNIFIL position," UNIFIL said in a statement.
"The IDF’s deliberate and direct destruction of clearly identifiable UNIFIL property is a flagrant violation of international law and resolution 1701. We again remind the IDF and all actors of their obligation to ensure the safety and security of U.N. personnel and property and respect the inviolability of U.N. premises at all times," the statement said.
Since 30 September, the Israeli army has repeatedly demanded that peacekeepers leave their positions near the Blue Line for their safety.
"Yesterday’s incident, like seven other similar incidents, is not a matter of peacekeepers getting caught in the crossfire, but of deliberate and direct actions by the IDF," UNIFIL said.
"We also note with concern the destruction and removal this week of two of the blue barrels that mark the U.N.-delineated line of withdrawal between Lebanon and Israel (the Blue Line). Peacekeepers directly observed the IDF removing one of them.
"Despite the unacceptable pressures being exerted on the mission through various channels, peacekeepers will continue to undertake our mandated monitoring and reporting tasks under resolution 1701," the statement said.
Source: Naharnet
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