UN Security Council Condemns Killing of Peacekeeper in Lebanon

United Nations, New York (ANTARA) - Members of the UN Security Council on Friday condemned the killing of a Serbian peacekeeper from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on Thursday. According to a Security Council press statement, the peacekeeper died from severe injuries sustained when a mortar projectile struck his position, and two other peacekeepers were wounded. The council members called on the UN to promptly investigate the attack through UNIFIL and urged that those responsible for the attack be held accountable immediately. Seven UNIFIL peacekeepers have been killed and several others wounded while carrying out their duties in southern Lebanon since the escalation of conflict on 2 March. The council members reiterated their full support for UNIFIL and urged all parties to take all measures to respect the safety and security of UNIFIL personnel and facilities, including the mission’s freedom of movement. Additionally, the Security Council members reaffirmed their commitment to the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and unity of Lebanon. They called on the international community to intensify support for the Lebanese Armed Forces, including in terms of equipment, materiel, and funding, to ensure the effective and sustained deployment of forces in the area south of the Litani River and to enhance their capacity to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Expressing concern over the escalation of conflict in recent days, the Security Council urged all parties to immediately cease hostilities, respect the 3 June ceasefire, and fully implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701.