UNIFIL issued a statement considering these airstrikes a blatant violation of “UN Security Council Resolution 1701,” noting that they coincided with the efforts of the Lebanese army to impose control over unauthorized weapons and facilities in the area south of the Litani River.
It stressed that any military action, especially of this destructive magnitude, poses a risk to the safety of civilians and negatively affects efforts to achieve a political and diplomatic solution.
The peacekeeping forces also affirmed their continued support for Lebanon and Israel in implementing “Resolution 1701,” and their field presence with Lebanese soldiers in an effort to restore stability.
It called on Israel to immediately cease these attacks and all violations of “Resolution 1701,” and urged the active Lebanese parties to avoid any reaction that could increase tension, stressing the need for both Lebanon and Israel to adhere to their commitments under “Resolution 1701” and “the understanding reached in November,” in order to avoid jeopardizing the hard-won progress.
