A United Nations peacekeeping patrol came under fire on Tuesday evening near Wadi Jilu in southern Lebanon. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon reported that about a dozen rounds were directed at its personnel during routine patrol duties.
Peacekeepers observed a muzzle flash and fired back. The shooting ceased immediately following their response. The mission confirmed that no peacekeepers sustained injuries in the incident.
UNIFIL issued a strong statement condemning the aggression. "Deliberate attacks on peacekeepers are violations of Security Council resolution 1701 and international humanitarian law," the mission said.
The peacekeeping organization called on the Lebanese government to act quickly. It urged authorities to launch an investigation to identify the perpetrators and ensure they are held accountable.
The mission reminded all factions of their legal obligations. It reiterated that all parties must protect United Nations personnel and property at all times.
The shooting took place against a backdrop of anxiety in Lebanon regarding the future of the region. Many people in the country worry about a potential security vacuum in the south when the mission mandate concludes at the end of 2026.
Meanwhile, Israeli military presence and ongoing attacks persist in southern Lebanon. International security arrangements that will follow the withdrawal of the peacekeeping force remain unclear.
The United Nations Security Council extended the mission mandate for a final time through 31 December 2025, scheduling a gradual and safe withdrawal for 2027.
UNIFIL has maintained a presence in southern Lebanon since 1978. Following the conflict in 2006, its mandate expanded to monitor the cessation of hostilities.
The expanded mandate also tasked the mission with assisting the Lebanese army in deploying across the south. Personnel also report violations and maintain communication channels with both the Lebanese and Israeli sides.
