UNIFIL Condemns Israeli Demolition of Facilities in Southern Lebanon
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that the Israeli army deliberately demolished an observation tower and surrounding fence at a UN facility in Marwahin, located in the Tyre district of southern Lebanon. This incident, which occurred on October 20, 2024, has raised serious concerns regarding the safety of UN personnel and the violation of international law. UNIFIL emphasized that such actions are not only a breach of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 but also threaten the security of peacekeepers stationed in the region.
UNIFIL's statement highlighted the ongoing tensions along the Blue Line, the demarcation line between Israel and Lebanon, where the Israeli military has reportedly pressured UNIFIL to vacate its positions. Despite these pressures, UNIFIL troops remain committed to their mission of monitoring the situation and providing necessary reports. Sirens were heard at the UNIFIL center in Tyre on the same day, indicating heightened security concerns.
Humanitarian Crisis Amid Ongoing Conflict
The situation in Lebanon has worsened significantly due to ongoing Israeli military operations, which have been described as an expansion of aggression since the outbreak of conflict on October 7, 2023. UNIFIL has raised alarms about the humanitarian crisis, particularly the disruption of water and sanitation services across Lebanon as a result of the Israeli bombardment. Peacekeepers in regions such as Meis Jbeil have reported severe shortages of clean drinking water, exacerbating the risk of cholera outbreaks, especially among vulnerable populations, including children.
The conflict has resulted in a staggering toll on the civilian population, with reports indicating over 2,448 deaths, 11,471 injuries, and more than 1.34 million people displaced since the escalation of violence. The ongoing attacks have also targeted UNIFIL headquarters and personnel, prompting widespread condemnation of Israel's actions. As the humanitarian situation deteriorates, the international community is urged to address the urgent needs of those affected by the conflict.
