UNIFIL statement: One peacekeeper killed in South Lebanon likely by 'non-state actors'

UNIFIL said on Saturday that a patrol clearing explosive ordnance along a road in the village of Ghandouriyeh to re-establish links with isolated UNIFIL positions came under small-arms fire from non-state actors. 

In a statement, UNIFIL said, "Tragically, one peacekeeper succumbed to his injuries and three others were injured, two of them seriously. The injured peacekeepers have been taken to medical facilities for treatment."

"We extend our most sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the brave peacekeeper who lost his life in the service of peace. Our thoughts and wishes go out for the full and speedy recovery of the injured peacekeepers," UNIFIL added.

UNIFIL condemned this "deliberate attack on peacekeepers engaged in their mandated tasks." The work of explosive ordnance disposal teams is vital in the mission's area of operations, especially in the wake of the recent hostilities.

UNIFIL announced that it launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident, saying that "initial assessment indicates the fire came from non-state actors (allegedly Hezbollah)."

"We reiterate the obligations of all actors under international law to ensure the safety and security of U.N. personnel and property at all times. Deliberate attacks on peacekeepers are grave violations of international humanitarian law and of Security Council Resolution 1701, and may amount to war crimes," the statement read.

UNIFIL called on the government of Lebanon to swiftly initiate an investigation to identify and hold the perpetrators accountable for the crimes committed against UNIFIL peacekeepers.