By: Isuru Parakrama
October 14, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka, together with 39 other nations, has vehemently condemned recent Israeli attacks on the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL), calling for a thorough investigation into the incidents.
Amongst those injured in the escalating violence are two Sri Lankan peacekeepers, prompting an outcry from Sri Lanka’s Foreign Affairs Ministry.
The attacks occurred in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces have launched a ground offensive against Hezbollah militants.
At least five UNIFIL peacekeepers, including the two Sri Lankans, have been wounded as a result of the conflict.
In response, the Sri Lankan Foreign Affairs Ministry issued a stern statement on Friday, expressing deep concern for the safety of its peacekeepers and the inviolability of UN premises.
“Sri Lanka strongly condemns the attack on UNIFIL’s headquarters in Naqoura, South Lebanon, which injured two Sri Lankan peacekeepers. We are in contact with UNIFIL to ensure they receive immediate medical attention and wish them a swift recovery,” the statement read.
The ministry reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to upholding the safety and security of UN personnel worldwide and underscored the nation’s pride in its peacekeepers’ brave contributions to global peace missions.
The joint statement issued on Saturday by 40 countries, including Sri Lanka, echoed the call for immediate cessation of attacks on peacekeeping forces. The statement demanded an investigation into the incidents, stressing the vital role UNIFIL plays in mediating and supporting peace during the ongoing conflict.
“Such actions must stop immediately and should be thoroughly investigated,” it stated.
The countries also urged all parties involved in the conflict to guarantee the security of UN personnel so they can continue their essential work.
Several nations, including Spain, France, and Italy, have already condemned the attacks as “unjustifiable,” whilst U.S. President Joe Biden called for Israel to cease targeting UN peacekeepers, adding global pressure to the situation.
UNIFIL has reported multiple attacks on its facilities, including shots deliberately fired at its headquarters in Naqoura.
As tensions rise in the region, Sri Lanka and the international community remain firm in their demand for the protection of peacekeeping forces and the continuation of their mission in Lebanon.
