Israel admits firing UN peacekeepers in Lebanon, citing misidentification

Jerusalem: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have acknowledged opening fire near two UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, saying the incident was the result of misclassification during poor weather conditions.

Troops in the Al-Hamames area initially identified “two suspects” and fired warning shots to force them to withdraw. A subsequent review confirmed the individuals were UNIFIL peacekeepers on patrol.

“The IDF emphasizes that no deliberate fire was directed toward UNIFIL soldiers, and the matter is being handled through official liaison channels,” the military said, adding that operations will continue to “remove any threat” to Israel.

Earlier, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that Israeli troops fired from a Merkava tank near an Israeli post, with heavy machine gun rounds landing about five metres from peacekeepers on foot. The patrol took cover and contacted Israeli forces through liaison channels, halting the firing. The peacekeepers withdrew safely about 30 minutes later after the tank retreated. No injuries were reported.

UNIFIL described the incident as a “serious violation” of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and urged Israel to cease “aggressive behaviour and attacks on or near peacekeepers,” stressing that UN personnel are deployed to help restore stability.

UNIFIL positions have come under fire repeatedly since cross-border clashes erupted following the Gaza war in October 2023. Despite a ceasefire with Hezbollah, Israel has continued periodic strikes in Lebanon, citing ongoing threats, and has maintained border positions beyond a February 18 withdrawal deadline.

(Inputs from IANS)