India Condemns Attacks On UN Peacekeepers In Lebanon

Geneva: India on Monday condemned the recent attacks on United Nations peacekeepers deployed in Lebanon and urged all parties to ensure the safety and security of the peacekeepers. An Indonesian peacekeeper was killed in a missile attack on March 29 on a base of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) near Adchit al-Qusayr. Another peacekeeper was critically injured in the attack.

What did India say?

India's Permanent Mission to the United Nations condemned the recent attack on UN peacekeepers serving with UNIFIL. In a statement, the Indian Mission said, "We condemn the recent attacks on UN peacekeepers deployed with UNIFIL and pay tribute to the fallen peacekeeper. We appeal to all parties to ensure the safety and security of the peacekeepers."

The statement added, "As one of the largest and longest-standing contributors to UN peacekeeping operations—and among the nations that have made the greatest sacrifices for this cause—India spearheaded UN Security Council Resolution 2589, which aims to ensure accountability for crimes committed against peacekeepers. We will continue to pursue this endeavor."

What does UN Security Council Resolution say?

UN Security Council Resolution 2589 urges member states to take all necessary measures to bring to justice those responsible for killing UN personnel during peacekeeping operations within their territories. Furthermore, the resolution emphasizes ensuring accountability in cases involving violence against UN personnel deployed in peacekeeping missions. This resolution was adopted by the 15-member Council in August 2021, during India's presidency.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres also strongly condemned the incident.