India condemns assault on French UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon; calls for accountability| India Information
New Delhi: India on Saturday issued a stern condemnation following a lethal assault on French UN Peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Interim Pressure in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
The official assertion, launched by the Ministry of Exterior Affairs, underscored India’s long-standing position as a number one contributor to international peacekeeping and its dedication to the security of these serving below the Blue Helmet.
In a press assertion, the Ministry of Exterior Affairs stated, “We strongly condemn the assault that occurred immediately on French UN Peacekeepers deployed in UNIFIL. We pay our homage to the fallen Blue Helmet and want a speedy restoration to the three different peacekeepers who had been injured.”
The UNIFIL, in an announcement issued on its telegram channel, stated that on Saturday morning, a UNIFIL patrol clearing explosive ordnance alongside a highway within the village of Ghanduriyah to re-establish hyperlinks with remoted UNIFIL positions got here below small-arms fireplace from non-state actors.
“Tragically, one peacekeeper succumbed to his accidents and three others had been injured, two of them critically. The injured peacekeepers have been taken to medical amenities for therapy”, the assertion added.
UNIFIL condemned the deliberate assault on peacekeepers engaged of their mandated duties and stated that the work of explosive ordnance disposal groups is important within the mission’s space of operations, particularly within the wake of the latest hostilities.
“UNIFIL has launched an investigation to find out the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. Preliminary evaluation signifies the hearth got here from non-state actors (allegedly Hizbullah)”, the assertion stated.
It known as on the Authorities of Lebanon to swiftly provoke an investigation to determine and maintain the perpetrators accountable for the crimes dedicated towards UNIFIL peacekeepers.
India expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved household and the federal government of France, wishing a swift restoration to the injured personnel.
India urged the Lebanese authorities to launch an pressing investigation into the assault. The assertion explicitly requires the perpetrators to be recognized and dropped at justice directly.
“India had piloted UN Safety Council Decision 2589 on Accountability for Crimes towards Peacekeepers. We urge the federal government of Lebanon to urgently examine this assault, deliver its perpetrators to justice, and guarantee accountability for this crime towards UN Peacekeepers,” learn the assertion.
India’s response highlighted its management in worldwide peacekeeping coverage, particularly referencing UN Safety Council Decision 2589. This decision, which India piloted, focuses on establishing accountability for crimes dedicated towards UN peacekeepers.
“India reiterates the significance of respecting the sanctity and inviolability of UN premises and personnel and urges all events to make sure the security and safety of Peacekeepers who’re deployed pursuant to UN Safety Council mandates,” it added.
The incident comes at a time of heightened regional rigidity, elevating critical considerations relating to the security of worldwide personnel.
By invoking Decision 2589, India is sending a transparent message to the worldwide neighborhood: assaults on UN personnel should not merely native crimes however violations of a world mandate that require a rigorous and clear authorized response.
