Saudi Arabia condemns the attack and Miqati threatens those responsible
The Irish government has stepped up its stance after the killing of one of its soldiers who operated within the “UNIFIL” forces in southern Lebanon, and has not ruled out the responsibility of “Hezbollah” for the attack on a patrol of these forces when it was in its power from south Beirut last Wednesday evening.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry has expressed the Kingdom’s condemnation and denunciation of the attack on the United Nations force, UNIFIL, in southern Lebanon, calling for an immediate and transparent investigation into the circumstances of the attack. The Farnesina has expressed the Kingdom’s total rejection of any form of violence, affirming its full support for the “UNIFIL” mission, also expressing sincere condolences and solidarity with the Irish government and people, and best wishes for a speedy recovery for the wounded.
Simon Coveney, Ireland’s foreign and defense minister, said he did not accept Hezbollah’s claims that it was not involved. He called for a thorough investigation to find out the whole truth.
A specialist Irish team of 8, including 3 military police investigators, is expected to arrive in Lebanon today to examine the circumstances of the incident and provide support to the three injured soldiers, according to an Irish Defense Ministry spokesman.
UNIFIL spokesman Andrea Tenenti said the incident was “very serious and it is important that the Lebanese authorities ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice”. He added that the killing of a UNIFIL peacekeeper is a crime against the international community and against the peacekeepers present in Lebanon to ensure security along the border with Israel.
Lebanon is currently making efforts to contain the fallout from the attack. Yesterday Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Army Commander General Joseph Aoun paid a solidarity visit to the UNIFIL headquarters in the border city of Naqoura.
Mikati and Aoun offered their condolences.
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