U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed his “deep concern” over the recent injury of several United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeepers due to Israeli fire during a phone call with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant.
In Austin’s statement, he highlighted:
- His deep concern about reports that Israeli forces fired on UN peacekeeping positions in Lebanon, as well as the killing of two Lebanese soldiers.
- He emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of UNIFIL forces and the Lebanese Armed Forces.
- The necessity of shifting from military operations in Lebanon to diplomatic channels as soon as possible.
- The deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and the need to take necessary steps to address it.
- Reaffirming the unwavering and firm U.S. commitment to Israel’s security.
UNIFIL troops, consisting of approximately 10,000 soldiers, are deployed in southern Lebanon along the Israeli border. Since Hezbollah opened a new front in October 2023, UNIFIL has been caught in the crossfire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants.
On Friday, Israel faced sharp criticism after UNIFIL accused its army of “repeated and deliberate” firing at its positions, leading to the injury of five peacekeepers.
