Netanyahu Urges UN to Relocate Lebanon Peacekeepers Amid Escalating Tensions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked the United Nations to move peacekeepers out of southern Lebanon, claiming Hezbollah uses them as human shields. Despite recent injuries to its members, UNIFIL refuses to withdraw, maintaining its presence to uphold regional peace. Lebanese leaders condemn Israel's demands, while Netanyahu argues that criticism should focus on Hezbollah's actions near UNIFIL posts.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to relocate peacekeepers stationed in southern Lebanon, citing concerns that Hezbollah is using them as 'human shields'.
Despite the recent injury of five UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) members amid intensifying conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the force remains committed to its peacekeeping functions in the region.
UNIFIL, comprised of approximately 9,500 multinational troops, continues to monitor a ceasefire stemming from the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah conflict, despite pressure from Israel for withdrawal.
Israeli officials assert that UNIFIL's presence inadvertently shelters Hezbollah militants.
Concurrently, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati criticized Israel's repositioning demands, calling it a divergence from international norms.
UNIFIL, meanwhile, has condemned incursions by Israeli forces, with instances of alleged destruction of UN positions reported.
Netanyahu argues criticism should target Hezbollah, which reportedly operates close to UNIFIL posts, allegedly launching attacks against Israel.
Despite the recent injury of five UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) members amid intensifying conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the force remains committed to its peacekeeping functions in the region.
UNIFIL, comprised of approximately 9,500 multinational troops, continues to monitor a ceasefire stemming from the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah conflict, despite pressure from Israel for withdrawal.
Israeli officials assert that UNIFIL's presence inadvertently shelters Hezbollah militants.
Concurrently, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati criticized Israel's repositioning demands, calling it a divergence from international norms.
UNIFIL, meanwhile, has condemned incursions by Israeli forces, with instances of alleged destruction of UN positions reported.
Netanyahu argues criticism should target Hezbollah, which reportedly operates close to UNIFIL posts, allegedly launching attacks against Israel.