France calls for protection of UN troops as UNIFIL patrol attacked in Lebanon

A United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) patrol involving French troops was fired upon on Tuesday, France’s Foreign Ministry confirmed in a statement. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the French personnel.

The ministry refrained from attributing responsibility for the attack but emphasized the necessity of safeguarding UN personnel, property, and facilities.

It said, “France reiterates that it is imperative that UNIFIL be able to exercise its freedom of movement so that it can fully implement its mandate.”

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The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the region. Since launching its ground incursion into Lebanon over a month ago, Israel has reportedly fired on UNIFIL positions multiple times, causing injuries to peacekeepers and damaging property.

Earlier in November, Kandice Ardiel, UNIFIL’s deputy spokesperson, revealed that Israeli forces have targeted the mission 40 times during this period.

France’s statement highlights the importance of ensuring the security of UNIFIL troops to allow them to fulfill their mission in the volatile region effectively. As clashes persist, calls for restraint and the protection of international peacekeeping forces grow louder.