India has strongly condemned the deadly attack on United Nations Peacekeepers in Lebanon on Friday. One French peacekeeper was killed and three others were injured in this attack.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued an official statement saying, ‘We strongly condemn the attack today on French UN peacekeepers deployed with UNIFIL. We pay tribute to the martyred Blue Helmets and wish the speedy recovery of the three other injured peacekeepers.
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How did the attack happen?
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) said that UNIFIL soldiers who were clearing explosive material on a road in the village of Ganduria on Saturday morning suddenly became victims of small arms fire. This firing was done by non-state actors.
One peacekeeper was killed in the attack and three others were injured, two of whom are said to be in critical condition. The injured have been taken to the hospital for treatment. UNIFIL said initial investigations appeared to indicate the firing was coming from non-state groups such as Hezbollah.
UNIFIL condemned the attack and said that clearing explosives is vital to their mission, especially after recent fighting. He has appealed to the Lebanese government to investigate as soon as possible and punish the culprits.
India demanded investigation
India has expressed its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased peacekeeper and the Government of France. Also wished for the speedy recovery of the injured soldiers. The Foreign Ministry urged the Lebanese government to immediately investigate the attack and bring the perpetrators to justice. “India had pushed for UN Security Council Resolution 2589, which mandates accountability for crimes against peacekeepers,” the statement said. We appeal to the Lebanese government to investigate this attack and bring the culprits to justice.
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India is one of the largest peacekeeping sending countries in the world and has always raised its voice for the safety and respect of the ‘Blue Helmets’. This incident shows the growing threat to UN peacekeeping missions and demands strict action from the international community.
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