Debates continues about the Israeli attacks on United Nations Peacekeeping Force positions in Lebanon. Defense ministers of the USA and Israel conducted phone calls throughout the night.

Concerns are raised by the USA due to the firing opened at the United Nations (UN) Peacekeeping Force positions in Lebanon. In a phone call between US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant yesterday, it was reported that Austin emphasized the need for the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) not to be targeted.

Forty countries contributing troops to UNIFIL also signed a joint statement calling for the protection of peacekeeping forces in Lebanon.

Following hours of discussions between the two sides overnight, an announcement was made today by the Israeli Defense Ministry stating that Gallant assured Austin that Israel will continue to take measures to ensure the safety of UNIFIL soldiers.

In the recent fighting led by Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, at least five peacekeeping soldiers have been wounded. UNIFIL accuses the Israeli army of deliberately opening fire on their positions. UNIFIL reported being repeatedly under fire in recent days in Nakura town where its headquarters are located and in other positions. The 40 countries contributing to UNIFIL, including Indonesia, Italy, and India, stated in a joint declaration yesterday that “Such actions must be stopped immediately and thoroughly investigated.” With approximately 9,500 troops from 50 nations serving in UNIFIL, the mission is tasked not only with other duties but also with monitoring the ceasefire that ended the 33-day war between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006.