Israeli tanks breach UN base in Lebanon; UNIFIL demands explanation for 'shocking violations'

UN peacekeepers in Lebanon have reported that Israeli tanks forced their way through a gate into a UN position on Sunday (Oct 13), after blocking peacekeepers' movement the previous day.

According to the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission, "At around 4:30 am (0130 GMT), while peacekeepers were in shelters, two IDF (Israeli military) Merkava tanks destroyed the position's main gate and forcibly entered the position" in the Ramia region, located in southern Lebanon.

The tanks demanded that the lights of the base be turned off several times. "They requested multiple times that the base turn out its lights. The tanks left about 45 minutes later after UNIFIL protested through our liaison mechanism," the statement said.

Later, just over two hours after the tanks left, peacekeepers reported "the firing of several rounds 100 metres (yards) north, which emitted smoke."

"Despite putting on protective masks, 15 peacekeepers suffered effects, including skin irritation and gastrointestinal reactions, after the smoke entered the camp," the statement noted. The affected personnel are receiving medical treatment.

UNIFIL logistical movement blocked by Israeli forces

The previous day, Israeli forces "stopped a critical UNIFIL logistical movement near Mais al-Jabal (an area in south Lebanon), denying it passage." UNIFIL has asked the Israeli military to explain what they described as violations against the peacekeepers.

UNIFIL calls for Israeli explanation on 'shocking violations'

"We have requested an explanation from the IDF for these shocking violations. For the fourth time in as many days, we remind the IDF and all actors of their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel," UNIFIL said.

In recent days, at least five peacekeepers have been injured as Israel has conducted strikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.

Netanyahu calls for UN peacekeepers' withdrawal

On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged the United Nations to withdraw its peacekeepers stationed in southern Lebanon, arguing that Hezbollah was using them as "human shields."

Netanyahu made this appeal to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, just a day after UNIFIL reiterated its stance not to withdraw from the border despite the injuries to its members during the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.

"Mr Secretary General, get the UNIFIL forces out of harm's way. It should be done right now, immediately," Netanyahu said in a video message released by his office.

He warned, "Your refusal to evacuate the UNIFIL soldiers makes them hostages of Hezbollah. This endangers both them and the lives of our soldiers."

UNIFIL, consisting of around 9,500 troops from roughly 50 different countries, has the mandate of monitoring a ceasefire established after the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah.

(With inputs from agencies)