All Parties, Including Israel, Must Respect UNIFIL’s Role
The White House National Security Communications Advisor, Kirby, recently made statements regarding Israel’s attacks on UNIFIL elements in Lebanon. In a press briefing held via teleconference, Kirby emphasized the importance of UNIFIL in maintaining peace in Lebanon and called on all parties, including Israel, to respect their role.
Kirby also raised concerns about the Israeli army’s operations against Hezbollah in densely populated areas of Beirut. He stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of civilians and UN peacekeepers during such operations and expressed disapproval of recent attacks that resulted in the loss of Lebanese soldiers’ lives.
Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron reminded Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Israel was established by a UN decision in 1947. Macron called on Israel to adhere to UN resolutions in its actions towards Gaza and Lebanon. Netanyahu’s office responded by rejecting the notion that Israel was founded by a UN decision, citing the sacrifices made by Israeli warriors during the War of Independence.
Tensions between Macron and Netanyahu escalated further with the imposition of an arms embargo on Israel. Macron urged for a halt in weapon shipments to Israel, while Netanyahu defended Israel’s right to self-defense against Iran and criticized Western leaders for their stance on the matter.
Recent incidents involving Israel targeting UNIFIL forces have sparked international outrage. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned Israel’s actions against the UN peacekeepers, stating that such attacks could potentially be classified as war crimes.
The conflict between Israel, Lebanon, and international organizations like UNIFIL continues to escalate, prompting calls for diplomacy and adherence to international laws and resolutions.
