New Delhi: India on Saturday condemned the deadly attack on French UN Peacekeepers who were part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Centre pointed out on India’s long-standing role as a leading contributor to global peacekeeping.
MEA issues statement
Issuing a statement, the MEA said, “We strongly condemn the attack that took place today on French UN Peacekeepers deployed in UNIFIL. We pay our homage to the fallen Blue Helmet and wish a speedy recovery to the three other peacekeepers who were injured.”
In its statement, UNIFIL said on its telegram channel, a UNIFIL patrol, which was clearing explosive ordnance along a road in Ghanduriyah village to connect links with UNIFIL positions, came under fire.
“Tragically, one peacekeeper succumbed to his injuries and three others were injured, two of them seriously. The injured peacekeepers have been taken to medical facilities for treatment”, the statement added. Condemning the incident, it said that the work of explosive ordnance disposal teams is important, mainly after hostilities in recent times.
“UNIFIL has launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. Initial assessment indicates the fire came from non-state actors (allegedly Hizbullah)”, the statement added further.
India urges Lebanon to launch a probe into the matter
Urging the Lebanese government to launch an urgent investigation into the incident, the MEA wrote, “India had piloted UN Security Council Resolution 2589 on Accountability for Crimes against Peacekeepers. We urge the government of Lebanon to urgently investigate this attack, bring its perpetrators to justice, and ensure accountability for this crime against UN Peacekeepers.”
“India reiterates the importance of respecting the sanctity and inviolability of UN premises and personnel and urges all parties to ensure the safety and security of Peacekeepers who are deployed pursuant to UN Security Council mandates,” the MEA statement added.