November 16, 2025 | Middle East | Peace and Security
A United Nations peacekeeping patrol in southern Lebanon narrowly avoided casualties after an Israeli tank shell landed just meters from their position on Sunday, escalating concerns over recent violations along the tense border area.
According to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), its foot patrol came under fire near the “Blue Line” – the UN-monitored demarcation separating Israel and Lebanon – when an Israeli Merkava tank positioned in Lebanese territory launched heavy artillery in their direction.
Shells Landed Just 5 Meters Away
UNIFIL reported that the incident occurred during routine operations and forced peacekeepers to retreat and seek shelter. A direct communication channel with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) was used to halt further shelling. The situation de-escalated approximately 30 minutes later when the tank withdrew.
“Fortunately, no injuries were reported,” UNIFIL confirmed. “However, this is a serious violation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.”
Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006, mandates a cessation of hostilities and the respect of Lebanese sovereignty following the war between Israel and Hezbollah. The Israeli military later claimed the attack was a result of “misidentification” due to poor visibility, stating the peacekeepers were mistakenly targeted and that there was no intention to harm them.
Third Incident in Three Months
This latest event marks the third such confrontation in recent months. On September 2, Israeli drones reportedly dropped grenades near UN troops attempting to clear roadblocks. Another incident on October 26 involved a grenade drop followed by direct tank fire targeting peacekeepers.
These repeated violations have drawn criticism and raise questions about the safety and neutrality of UN operations in volatile regions.
UN Mission Nears Completion
UNIFIL is currently set to complete its long-standing mission in Lebanon by the end of 2027. Initially deployed in 1978, the peacekeeping force now comprises over 10,000 personnel and has been central in maintaining fragile calm along the Israel–Lebanon border.
Following the 2006 war and renewed clashes in Autumn 2024, the UN expanded its mandate to include support for the Lebanese Army’s redeployment in southern regions where government control remains weak.
UN Calls for Restraint and Respect for International Law
“Once again, we urge the IDF to refrain from any aggressive actions or strikes near our peacekeeping units,” UNIFIL stated, emphasizing their role in preserving stability in a region both Israel and Lebanon claim to seek peace within.
As tensions simmer in the Middle East, UN officials stress the need for strict adherence to international law and protection of neutral peacekeeping personnel operating in conflict zones.
