A United Nations flag flies from the back of one of the armored vehicles of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) during a patrol around Marjayoun, in southern Lebanon, on Oct. 8, 2024. (Credit: AFP)
UNIFIL warned on Saturday of a potential "regional" conflict with a "catastrophic impact for all," AFP reported, after another peacekeeper was injured in Lebanon — the fifth in two days — according to UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti. He noted that the force has refused to abandon its positions in southern Lebanon, as demanded by Israel.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) rejected Israel's request to withdraw five kilometers further north into Lebanese territory, despite repeated Israeli strikes that have caused an international outcry, Tenenti said.
“The Israeli forces asked us to leave our positions along the Blue Line, moving five kilometers north of the Blue Line... but there was unanimous agreement for us to stay, as the U.N. flag must continue to fly in this area,” he explained. He also reported "extensive damage" to UNIFIL positions in southern Lebanon.
Israel continues attacks on southern Lebanon, demolishes buildings in Bint Jbeil