UN Convoy Attack in Lebanon Leaves Peacekeeper Injured

The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil) reported that its outgoing deputy commander sustained injuries during a brutal attack on a convoy headed to Beirut airport. Videos of the attack depict peacekeepers being assaulted, prompting strong condemnation from Lebanese authorities and calls for an investigation.

The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon has confirmed that its outgoing deputy commander was injured in a violent attack on a convoy. The incident took place while the convoy was transporting peacekeepers to Beirut airport, during which one of its vehicles was set ablaze. Unifil, which oversees peacekeeping efforts in the region, expressed its outrage over the assault and demanded a "full and immediate" investigation by local authorities.

The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from Lebanese officials, including Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and the Lebanese army, both pledging to apprehend those responsible for the violence. A series of videos circulating on social media captured the chaos, showing a white UN vehicle engulfed in flames while young men, waving yellow flags, appeared to chase and assault peacekeepers attempting to escape.

According to Unifil's statement, the injured deputy commander, whose name has not been disclosed, was returning from his mission when the attack occurred. "We are shocked by this outrageous attack on peacekeepers who have been serving to restore security and stability to southern Lebanon during a difficult time," the statement emphasized. The mission reiterated that such assaults on peacekeepers constitute serious violations of international law, potentially qualifying as war crimes, and called for those responsible to be brought to justice.

The backdrop to the violence includes a heightened tension between Lebanon and Iran, particularly over the recent blockade of two Iranian aircraft from landing in Lebanon, leaving many Lebanese citizens stranded in Iran. Moreover, supporters of Hezbollah have been gathering outside Beirut airport, increasing the atmosphere of unrest.

In response to the attack, Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmed Al-Hajjar has announced a security meeting set for Saturday, labeling the incident as a "crime against peacekeeping forces." Established to oversee a buffer zone following the 2006 Lebanon war, Unifil operates throughout southern Lebanon, making this violence particularly alarming for its long-term mission and the fragile peace in the region.