Deputy Director of the UNIFIL Media Office Kandice Ardiel declared on Wednesday that “UNIFIL peacekeeping soldiers observed the crossing of an excavator arm across the Blue Line from the south, as well as the crossing of a Lebanese soldier across the line from the North.”
“UNIFIL peacekeepers are present on the ground for the purpose of engagement, coordination with the parties, and assisting in defusing tensions,” she stated.
Ardell added: “We urge all parties and individuals present at the site to maintain calm. We reaffirm that any activity near the Blue Line is highly sensitive.”
She then stated, “It is important for the parties to coordinate any actions through UNIFIL to avoid friction and to help ensure the full respect for the sanctity of the Blue Line.”
