As tensions rise in the West Asia region, 40 countries, including India, have condemned the recent Israeli attacks on UNIFIL peacekeepers in Lebanon. In a recorded video, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for the withdrawal of UNIFIL troops from Hezbollah strongholds to prevent them from being used as human shields. India, along with other nations, has expressed concern for the safety of UN personnel and urged for the inviolability of UN premises to be respected.
Tensions between Lebanon and Israel have escalated once again, this time involving the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Here's a comprehensive overview of the situation:
UNIFIL has been present in southern Lebanon since 1978, following the Israeli invasion of the country. The mission's primary mandate is to maintain peace and security along the border between Lebanon and Israel, and to support the Lebanese government in restoring authority in the south.
Hezbollah, a Lebanese political and military organization designated as a terrorist group by several countries, has a strong presence in southern Lebanon. Israel has repeatedly accused Hezbollah of using UNIFIL personnel and facilities as human shields.
On July 28, 2022, Israel launched airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. Some of the attacks reportedly occurred near UNIFIL positions, resulting in damage to vehicles and injuries to peacekeepers.
The attacks on UNIFIL have drawn widespread condemnation from the international community. Over 40 countries, including India, have censured Israel's actions and emphasized the need to respect the safety of UN personnel.
The United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting to discuss the situation and called for an investigation into the attacks. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concern and urged both sides to exercise restraint.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended Israel's actions, claiming that Hezbollah had been using UNIFIL as cover for its operations. He called for the withdrawal of UNIFIL troops from Hezbollah strongholds to prevent similar incidents in the future.
1. What is UNIFIL's role in Lebanon? UNIFIL is responsible for maintaining peace and security along the Lebanon-Israel border and supporting the Lebanese government in restoring authority in the south.
2. Why has Hezbollah been targeted by Israel? Israel has accused Hezbollah of using UNIFIL personnel and facilities as human shields and of launching attacks from within civilian areas.
3. What is India's position on the recent attacks? India has condemned the attacks on UNIFIL and expressed concern for the safety of UN personnel.
4. Has UNIFIL been accused of bias in the past? Hezbollah and some Lebanese officials have accused UNIFIL of being biased towards Israel. The UN has denied these allegations and maintains that its mission is impartial.
5. What is the future of UNIFIL in Lebanon? The future of UNIFIL is uncertain, as tensions between Lebanon and Israel continue. The Security Council will likely continue to monitor the situation and consider whether UNIFIL's mandate should be renewed.
India has expressed concerns over the recently signed mutual defence pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, stating that it will study the implications on national security and regional stability. The pact, which aims to develop defense cooperation and strengthen joint deterrence against aggression, is seen as a response to recent geopolitical developments in the region. India, which has a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia, is reading the development cautiously, given the close strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and India's rival, Pakistan.
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