Israeli tanks enter UN peacekeeping base in Southern Lebanon amid rising tensions

Israeli tanks reportedly breached the gates of a United Nations peacekeeping base in southern Lebanon, marking the latest in a series of accusations concerning violations in the region.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported the incident on Sunday, following escalating tensions and repeated clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for the removal of UNIFIL troops from combat areas, asserting that Hezbollah uses the peacekeepers as human shields. Despite requests from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), UN officials have refused to withdraw their personnel, who have been stationed in southern Lebanon since 1978 to monitor peace in the region, reported Reuters.

The incident comes amid Israel's intensified military campaign against Hezbollah, which has been responsible for several attacks on Israeli positions. Over the past three weeks, Israeli strikes have resulted in significant casualties, including the deaths of many senior Hezbollah leaders, making it the most deadly assault on Lebanon in decades.

The escalating violence has also drawn criticism from Israel’s allies, including Italy, France, and Spain, whose troops form a significant portion of the UNIFIL peacekeeping force. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed concern over the attacks on peacekeepers, while U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urged Israel to ensure the safety of both UNIFIL personnel and Lebanese military forces.

The Lebanese government reports over 2,100 casualties since the start of the conflict, as the situation continues to fuel fears of further regional escalation following the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023.