India has raised significant concerns regarding the safety of its soldiers stationed as part of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. This statement follows recent incidents where Israeli forces targeted areas close to UN positions while engaging Hezbollah militants.
Currently, approximately 600 Indian soldiers are deployed in south Lebanon, along the 120-kilometre Blue Line, which marks the boundary between Israel and Lebanon.
The Ministry of External Affairs in India issued a statement expressing its apprehension about the deteriorating security situation in the region. The ministry emphasised the importance of maintaining the inviolability of UN premises and stressed that all parties must respect this principle. They also highlighted the need for appropriate measures to ensure the safety of UN peacekeepers and the integrity of their mission.
This announcement comes just a day after reports from the United Nations indicated that the headquarters of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in Naqoura, along with nearby positions, have been subjected to repeated attacks by Israeli forces.
The UN stated that two peacekeepers were injured when an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) tank fired at an observation tower within the UNIFIL headquarters. Fortunately, the injuries were not severe, and the peacekeepers remain hospitalised for further evaluation.
The situation along the Israel-Lebanon border has rapidly escalated following the assassination of a prominent Hezbollah leader. Reports indicate that Israeli forces are increasingly utilising land-based weaponry, raising the stakes for all troops stationed in the vicinity, including Indian soldiers. The IDF has accused Hezbollah of operating near UNIFIL posts, which has resulted in heightened tensions and complexities in the area.
In their communication, the IDF confirmed that they were operating in southern Lebanon and maintained routine contact with UNIFIL. They acknowledged that IDF troops were active near Naqoura, adjacent to a UNIFIL base, and instructed UN forces to remain in protected spaces during their operations. The IDF's statement underscored the precarious balance between conducting military operations and ensuring the safety of peacekeepers.
The involvement of Indian soldiers in UN peacekeeping missions has a long history, with India being one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping forces globally.
The commitment to peace and security in conflict zones is a vital aspect of India's foreign policy. However, the current situation in Lebanon poses unique challenges, particularly with the increasing hostilities in the region.
As tensions continue to rise, India is keenly monitoring the situation to safeguard the interests and safety of its personnel deployed abroad. The government has reiterated its commitment to the principles of international peace and security and the crucial role that UN peacekeepers play in maintaining stability in conflict-affected regions.
The recent developments highlight the precarious nature of peacekeeping missions, especially in volatile regions such as Lebanon. It underscores the importance of dialogue and cooperation among nations to address the underlying issues fueling conflict and to ensure the safety of those tasked with peacekeeping responsibilities.
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