Lebanon: Another peacekeeper dies in new attack

Lebanon: Another Peacekeeper Killed in Fresh Attack

Lebanon – On Thursday morning, a Serbian peacekeeper stationed in Lebanon lost his life after being struck by mortar fire near Marjayoun in the country’s southeastern region, according to the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

The individual, identified as Sergeant Milovan Jovanivić, was among three peacekeepers injured in the incident, who are currently receiving treatment at a UNIFIL medical center. The UN force emphasized that an ongoing investigation aims to determine the precise cause of the attack, urging an end to the escalating hostilities.

Targeted Strikes and Regional Tensions

The mortar strike occurred just hours before a proposed ceasefire extension between Lebanon and Israel, announced by the US on Wednesday. However, Hezbollah’s military wing leaders reportedly dismissed the agreement, labeling it “ineffective.”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the killing, expressing heartfelt sympathy for those who knew the deceased peacekeeper. He reiterated the need for thorough investigations into attacks on UN personnel, stressing that such actions violate international humanitarian law and Security Council Resolution 1701.

“Deliberate attacks on peacekeepers are grave violations of international humanitarian law and of Security Council Resolution 1701, and may amount to war crimes,” stated UNIFIL.

Guterres also called for all parties to uphold the April 16 cease-fire agreement, while urging Hezbollah to recognize Lebanon’s authority over weapon control and for Israel to fully withdraw from the northern border area.

Impact on Civilian Populations

The attack adds to a growing toll of UN peacekeepers in Lebanon, with seven casualties recorded since hostilities began on March 2. The conflict, which intensified after Hezbollah fired into northern Israel on March 2, has displaced over a million people and instilled fear across communities.

UNICEF highlighted the emotional toll on southern Beirut residents, noting that many have been too anxious to remain in their homes. “Most of them are coming during the day, checking their homes and leaving at night,” explained UNICEF spokesperson Christophe Boulierac.

Meanwhile, Stéphane Dujarric, a UN spokesperson, noted that over 200,000 individuals in Beirut’s southern suburbs were evacuated following an Israeli warning on June 1, prompting mass vehicle departures captured in recent footage.

Peacekeeping Efforts and Regional Dynamics

UNIFIL reported a surge in “trajectories and impacts” in southern Lebanon, signaling the ongoing intensity of hostilities. The latest ceasefire proposal, which excludes Hezbollah, includes plans for “pilot zones” under Lebanese military jurisdiction.

Despite the renewed agreement, fears persist that the conflict could resume. Guterres expressed hope the truce would pave the way for lasting peace, emphasizing the UN’s commitment to diplomatic support for resolution implementation.