The incident involving an attack on a patrol from the Irish contingent of UNIFIL operating in southern Lebanon, which resulted in the death of one soldier and injuries to several others, has raised many questions about the underlying reasons for this heinous act at this timing, especially after more than two months since the completion of the maritime border demarcation between Lebanon and Israel.
The attack may take on an individual character, particularly since Hezbollah has denied any involvement in what took place. The head of the party's liaison and coordination unit, Wafiq Safa, contacted UNIFIL's leadership and offered condolences. Meanwhile, the majority of political forces have urged the caretaker government to conduct an immediate and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident, a move that has been announced by Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib.
Political sources pointed out that "the eyes of the Lebanese will turn towards the potential Lebanese and international investigations, especially if Ireland sends a committee to follow up on the investigation. In that case, Lebanon will be under international scrutiny, and they will monitor the potential ramifications that could be 'consequences' if Lebanese negligence in protecting these international forces is proven."
