UNIFIL – India Calls for Accountability After Deadly Attack on UN Peacekeepers
UNIFIL – International peacekeeping and UN security cooperation remain at the center of global attention following a deadly attack on United Nations personnel in southern Lebanon.
India has strongly condemned the attack on peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), expressing grief over the loss of a Serbian peacekeeper and extending wishes for a speedy recovery to those injured in the incident.
India Reaffirms Support for UN Peacekeepers
In a statement issued by India’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York, the government emphasized the need to protect UN personnel operating under mandates approved by the UN Security Council. The mission stressed that the safety of peacekeepers must remain a priority for all parties involved in conflict zones.
India also reiterated the importance of respecting UN facilities and personnel, describing their protection as a fundamental obligation under international norms. The statement urged all stakeholders to ensure that peacekeepers can carry out their duties without facing threats or attacks.
Demand for Thorough Investigation
Calling for accountability, India urged authorities to conduct a comprehensive and immediate investigation into the incident. The mission referred to UN Security Council Resolution 2589, which focuses on accountability for crimes committed against peacekeepers.
According to the statement, those responsible for the attack must be identified and brought to justice. India emphasized that accountability is essential not only for this case but also for safeguarding peacekeeping operations around the world.
Fatal Incident Near Marjayoun
Earlier on Thursday, UNIFIL confirmed that one of its peacekeepers died after sustaining severe injuries when mortar rounds struck a position near Marjayoun in southeastern Lebanon.
The mission reported that two additional peacekeepers were wounded during the same incident. They are currently receiving medical treatment at a healthcare facility located within a UNIFIL base.
UNIFIL announced that an internal investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and establish the facts that led to the fatal outcome.
UNIFIL Highlights International Obligations
Following the incident, UNIFIL renewed its appeal to all parties operating in the region to comply with international law. The mission stressed that every effort must be made to ensure the protection of UN personnel, facilities, and assets.
Officials warned that actions placing peacekeepers at risk undermine international peace and security efforts. The mission also urged armed actors to avoid activities that could endanger personnel serving under the UN flag.
UNIFIL further noted that intentional attacks on peacekeepers constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law. Such actions may also breach the provisions of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and, depending on the circumstances, could amount to war crimes.
UN Secretary-General Voices Concern
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also condemned the attack and expressed concern over the growing toll on peacekeeping personnel in Lebanon.
According to the UN chief, seven UNIFIL peacekeepers have lost their lives since hostilities intensified in March this year, while several others have been injured. Guterres called for an end to attacks targeting peacekeepers and renewed appeals for greater protection of UN personnel working in conflict-affected areas.
The latest incident has once again highlighted the dangers faced by international peacekeepers deployed in volatile regions and reinforced calls from the international community for stronger measures to ensure their safety while carrying out critical missions aimed at maintaining peace and stability.