The Deputy Force Commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was injured in an attack on a convoy that was transporting peacekeepers to Beirut airport.The incident occurred on Friday, February 14, 2025.
According to various news sources:
- RTÉ reported that the attack was a violent one, targeting the convoy and injuring the deputy commander [1[1[1[1].
- stated that the outgoing deputy force commander was injured in the attack, which took place as the convoy was heading to Beirut airport [2[2[2[2].
- the BBC reported that one of the vehicles in the convoy was set on fire during the attack [3[3[3[3].
The attack has been widely condemned, with the UNIFIL stating that such attacks on peacekeepers are flagrant violations of international law and may amount to war crimes. Lebanese authorities have been urged to conduct a full and immediate investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
UNIFIL Convoy Attack: A Breach of International Peace in Lebanon
Last week, a convoy transporting peacekeepers to Beirut airport came under attack, injuring the outgoing Deputy Force Commander of the United Nations Interim force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). This incident has drawn international condemnation and reignited concerns about the safety of peacekeepers in volatile regions.
An Expert’s Outlook on the UNIFIL Attack
Today, we are joined by Dr. sarah Malik, a leading expert on peacekeeping operations and international law. Dr. malik,thank you for taking the time to speak with us.
Senior Editor (SE): Could you provide some context about UNIFIL’s mission in Lebanon and the challenges they face?
Dr. Sarah Malik (DSM): of course. UNIFIL was established in 1978 to confirm the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon, help restore international peace and security in the area, and ensure the safe and effective operation of the Lebanese Armed Forces in their area of operations. However, the region remains politically complex and volatile, with ongoing tensions and sporadic violence.
SE: Turning to the specific attack on Friday, february 14th, 2025, can you explain the significance of targeting a UN peacekeeper convoy?
DSM: Such attacks are deeply troubling. Peacekeepers are there to help protect civilians and support peace processes. Targeting them directly is a blatant violation of international law and sends a hazardous message.
SE: Reports indicate that the Deputy Force Commander was injured. How common are attacks on high-ranking personnel within UNIFIL?
DSM: While attacks on UN peacekeepers are unfortunately not uncommon, assaults on senior officers are less frequent.This attack,given the rank of the injured individual,carries a particular gravity.
SE: Are there existing mechanisms in place to ensure the safety and security of UNIFIL personnel?
DSM: UNIFIL does operate with security protocols in place, but these are constantly being assessed and adapted to the evolving threat landscape.There is no foolproof way to guarantee absolute safety in such a complex and unpredictable surroundings. Though, international pressure and cooperation are crucial to deterring such acts and providing adequate protection.
SE: The UN has condemned the attack and called for a thorough examination. What are the implications of the Lebanese authorities not bringing the perpetrators to justice?
DSM: Failure to bring the perpetrators to justice undermines the rule of law and sends a message of impunity. It can further erode trust in international peacekeeping efforts and embolden those who seek to oppose them.
SE: Thank you, Dr. Malik, for your insightful analysis.
The attack on the UNIFIL convoy serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks faced by peacekeepers and the importance of upholding international law in conflict zones. The international community must remain committed to ensuring the safety of UN personnel and supporting their vital mission of promoting peace and security around the globe.