Beirut, Lebanon – The Lebanese government today strongly condemned the targeting of UNIFIL forces, asserting that any attack on these forces constitutes a blatant violation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and threatens stability in southern Lebanon.
The Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that the Lebanese state is working to strengthen its sovereignty and ensure that weapons are solely in the hands of the army and official security forces. It also reiterated the prohibition of all armed activities by any organization or party outside the framework of the state, in a clear reference to Hezbollah and its military and political bases.
Beirut emphasized that these measures aim to protect civilians and prevent an escalation of armed clashes within Lebanese territory. It also stressed its full cooperation with UNIFIL to ensure the safety of international forces and maintain peace in the border areas.
Local political sources confirmed that the government will closely monitor the investigations to identify those responsible for targeting UNIFIL, in order to take the necessary legal action against any party that violates national and international laws.
This announcement comes at a time of heightened security tensions in Lebanon, amid fears of escalating clashes between armed factions. This necessitates that the state strengthen its role in enforcing security, protecting its borders, and ensuring that weapons remain solely in the hands of the state.
