Escalation in Southern Lebanon: Israeli Forces Target UNIFIL Bases
On Thursday, Israeli forces launched an attack on three UNIFIL bases situated in southern Lebanon, according to Andrea Tenenti, spokesperson for the UN mission. The mission, which includes around 1000 Italian military personnel, is positioned to help maintain peace in the region.
Among the targeted facilities, two are operated by Italy, while the third serves as the headquarters for the mission. Reports from Lebanese military intelligence sources indicate that the Israeli army specifically opened fire at one of the Italian bases positioned along the demarcation line with Lebanon.
The sources identified the impacted location as the UNP 131 base located on the hill of Laboune, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Italian contingent. Following the operation of an Israeli drone that conducted reconnaissance over the area, Israeli artillery targeted the entrance of a bunker that shelters Italian soldiers, further escalating tensions.
The artillery fire caused significant damage, particularly affecting the communication systems between this base and the UNIFIL command center at Naqura. Amid the chaos, at least two UN peacekeepers were reported injured, as per Lebanese military security sources. These peacekeepers, identified as Indonesian nationals, sustained injuries when an Israeli tank opened fire on an observation tower within the base. Fortunately, local medical sources stated that the injuries are not life-threatening.
In addition, surveillance cameras at the two Italian outposts were destroyed during the assault, although no Italian military personnel were reported to be harmed, as indicated by well-informed sources.
The escalation of violence is particularly concerning, as it poses a threat not only to peacekeepers but also to the fragile stability in the region. As tensions continue to rise, it remains imperative for all parties to engage in dialogue and prevent further conflict.
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