In a joint statement, 34 countries have called for the protection of Unifil peacekeepers in Lebanon and condemned the recent attacks against them. Poland initiated the letter, which comes after five peacekeepers were wounded amid Israel’s attacks on the country. The statement affirms the crucial role of Unifil in the region and demands an end to attacks on peacekeepers.
Meanwhile, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society conducted a complex 12-hour mission to evacuate 16 patients and 14 companions from a hospital in northern Gaza to a safer location. Israeli forces had ordered the hospital to be evacuated, threatening arrest if not complied with. Simultaneously, Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have resulted in at least 15 deaths across three locations, with one area being struck for the first time.
Amidst the ongoing violence, over 2,000 people have been killed in Lebanon by Israeli forces, while 1.2 million have been forcibly displaced. The UN peacekeepers in south Lebanon have remained despite the attacks, refusing Israel’s request to withdraw from certain positions. Additionally, Israeli airstrikes have displaced 40% of students in Lebanon, with over 60% of public schools being used as shelters.
In related news, more than 100 UN member states, including the African Union, have signed a letter of support for UN Secretary-General António Guterres after Israel declared him persona non grata. The letter condemns Israel’s actions, stating they undermine the UN’s ability to mediate conflicts and provide humanitarian support.
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