A United Nations peacekeeping force patrol came under fire in the southern region of Lebanon on Tuesday, according to a statement by UNIFIL. The incident occurred near Wadi Jilu, within the Tyre district, as about a dozen rounds were fired at one of UNIFIL's patrols without specifying the perpetrators. In response, the patrol returned fire, causing the shooting to cease. Fortunately, UNIFIL reported no casualties and called for an immediate investigation. The force emphasized that such deliberate attacks on peacekeepers are violations of Security Council resolution 1701 and international humanitarian law.
Established by the United Nations Security Council in March 1978, UNIFIL has served as a buffer between Israel and Lebanon since Israel's invasion of the country. Despite its presence, numerous conflicts have erupted over the years, including the recent one between Israel and Hezbollah. The Israeli military continues to occupy parts of southern Lebanon, despite a so-called ceasefire and a US-brokered agreement for withdrawal from those areas and the deployment of the Lebanese army to disarm Hezbollah.
In light of UNIFIL's mandate expiring at the end of 2026, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated that G7 foreign ministers agreed on the necessity to prevent a security void in Lebanon. The ministers also advocated for a swift transition towards a new security architecture. However, no progress has been made regarding replacing UNIFIL, which consists of approximately 7,500 personnel from nearly 50 countries. Last year, under US pressure, the United Nations Security Council voted to end UNIFIL's mandate on December 31, 2026, but Lebanese officials have called for an extension.