New york: Russia on Tuesday expressed strong condemnation over the recent deadly attacks targeting the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), as announced by its envoy to the United Nations. Russian UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia addressed a UN Security Council meeting, emphasizing the nation's disapproval of assaults on UNIFIL contingents, irrespective of the perpetrators.
According to Anadolu Agency, Nebenzia underscored Russia's support for urging conflict parties to adhere to international law and prioritize the safety of UN personnel. He advocated for an immediate ceasefire in the Lebanon-Israel border vicinity, warning that without it, incidents of violence involving UN personnel in southern Lebanon might escalate.
Nebenzia further demanded an exhaustive investigation into what he termed an Israeli assault on a Russian RT crew in Lebanon on March 19, stressing the need for accountability. He condemned attacks on journalists as severe breaches of international law, referencing the recent deaths of three journalists in southern Lebanon.
Expressing apprehension over the escalated Israeli military undertakings in Lebanon, Nebenzia reiterated Moscow's dedication to Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He urged Israeli leadership to forsake the exclusive reliance on military force to tackle security concerns, advocating for military withdrawal from occupied regions and a return to diplomatic engagement.
In a statement on Monday, UNIFIL confirmed that two peacekeepers were killed following an 'explosion of unknown origin' which destroyed their vehicle near Bani Hayyan in the Marjeyoun district. This incident followed another attack within a 24-hour period, prompting an ongoing investigation.
On the previous day, UNIFIL reported the death of one peacekeeper and the injury of another after a projectile struck a UNIFIL position near Adshit al-Qusayr in southern Lebanon. The region has witnessed intensified conflict since an offensive by Hezbollah on March 2, leading to Israeli airstrikes and ground operations. Lebanese authorities have reported at least 1,247 deaths and 3,690 injuries due to the Israeli military actions since then.