US warns Israel after 'shocking violation' angers UN, EU says 'unacceptable'

The illegal entry of Israeli army tanks into the United Nations International Forces (UNIFIL) camp in southern Lebanon early on October 13 is causing outrage in the international community.

UNIFIL's military base in southern Lebanon, which was invaded by Israeli tanks early on October 13. (Source: AP)

The incident prompted UNIFIL to call it “shocking violations” by Israel against its forces, while UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that any attacks on peacekeepers “could constitute war crimes”.

In response to the incident, the United States, an ally of Israel, highlighted the importance of taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of UN peacekeepers in Lebanon and the Lebanese armed forces.

Reuters news agency quoted the US Department of Defense as saying that the request was made by the department's leader Lloyd Austin during a phone call with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant on October 13.

According to Pentagon spokesman Major General Patrick Ryder, during the call, Mr. Austin also highlighted the need to transition from military operations in Lebanon to diplomacy to ensure the security of civilians as soon as possible as well as to urgently take steps to address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Meanwhile, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of the European Union (EU) Josep Borrell also issued a statement condemning all attacks on UN missions.

"Such attacks on UN peacekeepers constitute a serious violation of international law and are completely unacceptable. These attacks must stop immediately," the statement said, Reuters reported.

According to him, all parties to the conflict have an obligation to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and assets.

Mr. Borrell also noted that the EU is waiting for an explanation and a comprehensive investigation from the Israeli authorities into the attacks on UNIFIL, a force that plays a fundamental role in maintaining stability in southern Lebanon.

For its part, Israel has objected to several UN reports on UNIFIL-related incidents, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claiming that UNIFIL was providing “human shields” to Hezbollah fighters during the outbreak of hostilities.

However, on October 13, AFP news agency reported that in a conversation with his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, Mr. Netanyahu expressed regret for "any harm caused to UNIFIL personnel" in Lebanon and emphasized that "every effort will be made to prevent UNIFIL casualties."

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/tinh-hinh-lebanon-my-canh-tinh-israel-sau-vi-pham-gay-soc-khien-lhq-nong-mat-eu-noi-khong-the-chap-nhan-290062.html