UNIFIL Spokesperson Andrea Tenenti expressed deep worry over the “alarming shift” in the escalating situation in South Lebanon, reaching areas “far from the Blue Line.”
“The escalation of the conflict has claimed too many lives, including, tragically, the lives of children. It has also caused extensive damage to homes and public infrastructure and jeopardized the livelihoods of thousands of civilians,” Tenenti said.
He stressed that the “attacks targeting civilians constitute a violation of international law and amount to war crimes.”
As such, he urged all parties involved to immediately cease hostilities in order to prevent further loss of life and to ensure the safety of civilians residing near the Blue Line, stressing the need to “intensify diplomatic efforts” to restore stability on the border.
In conclusion, Tenenti assured that “UNIFIL continues to work fully with the parties to ease tensions, and the peacekeepers continue their operations on the ground despite the challenges they face.”
