"UNIFIL" Sounds the Alarm: Are We Approaching a Wider War in Lebanon?

The official spokesperson for "UNIFIL," Andrea Tenenti, announced that "yesterday afternoon, a watchtower within a UNIFIL site near the area of Ibbi al-Qamh in southern Lebanon was shelled, resulting in structural damage to the tower; fortunately, no one was injured." He indicated that "the source of the gunfire is under investigation." Tenenti emphasized that "any targeting of UNIFIL sites and any use of the area adjacent to our sites to launch attacks across the Blue Line is unacceptable, as attacks against civilians or UN personnel are violations of international law." He continued: "We remind the parties of their obligations to protect peacekeepers and avoid endangering the men and women working to restore stability." The UNIFIL spokesperson pointed out that "after more than two months of active shelling along the Blue Line, the likelihood of a miscalculation leading to a broader conflict is increasing," affirming that "restoring stability through diplomatic channels remains a priority to ensure the safety of all civilians living near the Blue Line, as well as the safety of peacekeepers." Tenenti stressed that "the priority of UNIFIL remains focused on preventing escalation, protecting civilian lives, and ensuring the safety and security of peacekeepers."